Lebanon’s Prime Minister Confirms Plan to Relaunch Qlayaat Airport

Lebanon’s Prime Minister Nawaf Salam confirmed that the plan for René Moawad Airport in Qlayaat is now complete, a major step forward to revive this strategic northern air hub.

The government has prioritized this project as part of a broader plan to boost development across Lebanon’s regions. Officials recently toured South Lebanon, North Lebanon, and the Bekaa to assess infrastructure needs and identify priority projects.

The Story Behind the René Moawad Airport

Founded in the 1940s, Qlayaat Airport was first used to support Beirut Airport operations and facilitate Tripoli’s refinery activities. Over the years, it has been used for limited civilian and humanitarian flights. It never operated as a full-scale commercial airport.

In the 1960s, it was converted for military use. By 1967, a 3,000-meter-long runway and new facilities were built to accommodate military aircraft, while a smaller runway was repurposed as a tarmac.

^{Source: LBCI}

The site officially became known as René Moawad Airport in 1990, named after the late Lebanese president. Technicians have long argued that Qlayaat airport’s geographic and weather advantages make it ideal for expanded civilian use.

Calls to reopen the airport have resurfaced repeatedly, especially from northern Lebanon residents who have long pushed for better infrastructure and economic opportunities in the area.

Its Rehabilitation

Back in March, PM Salam announced that Dar Al-Handasah would deliver the airport’s preliminary master plan free of charge, with a three-month timeline. That plan is now ready.

During an earlier site visit, Salam emphasized that the airport’s reopening could play a key role in strengthening the area’s economy, improving national connectivity, and enhancing regional security. Public Works and Transport Minister Fayez Rasamni also confirmed that road network studies leading to the airport are ongoing, and that talks with investors are part of the next phase.

^{Source: This Is Beirut}

Over the years, various governments have listed reactivating Qlayaat Airport as part of their ministerial policy statements, but progress had largely stalled until now.

While no specific reopening date has been announced, officials insist the project is now moving beyond talk and into action.

Found this useful? You might also like: The Truth About MEA’s Low-Cost Airline