Lebanon nears launch of second airport to boost budget travel

Lebanon has taken a major step toward reopening its second international airport after authorities awarded an operations contract for René Mouawad Airport in the country’s north, reports The New Arab staff and agencies on May 22nd.

The Ministry of Public Works and Transport announced this week that Sky Lounge Services had won the bid to operate and invest in the airport, beating 18 competing companies in the tender process.

The airport, also known as Qleiaat Airport, is located in Akkar near the city of Tripoli and close to the Syrian border. Officials say the facility could become a hub for low-cost airlines serving destinations across the Middle East and Europe, although no routes have yet been officially confirmed.

Local media reports suggest a temporary passenger terminal could open within 90 days, with preparations already underway to install security systems, operational equipment, and improve surrounding infrastructure.

Lebanese officials described the project as a major milestone for the country’s aviation sector. In a statement, the transport ministry said reopening the airport would strengthen Lebanon’s air transport infrastructure, reduce pressure on Beirut–Rafic Hariri International Airport, and create economic opportunities in northern Lebanon.

The move comes amid growing frustration over expensive air travel and limited competition in Lebanon’s aviation market, where Middle East Airlines has long dominated commercial flights. Large Lebanese communities living in Europe and Gulf countries have frequently criticised high ticket prices and the lack of low-cost options.

Originally used for civilian flights during Lebanon’s 1975–1990 civil war, the airport was later converted into a military air base and renamed after former president René Mouawad, who was assassinated in 1989 after just 17 days in office.

Prime Minister Nawaf Salam has backed the reopening project since forming his government last year, despite similar promises from previous administrations failing to materialise.

The project also comes as Beirut’s airport struggles with overcrowding during peak travel seasons and amid ongoing regional security concerns linked to the conflict between Israel and Hezbollah.

The New Arab staff and agencies, Maghrebi.org