Lebanon Launches Safety Audit of Middle East Airlines Amid Pilot Groups’ Complaints

Lebanon's civil aviation authority has launched a safety audit of Middle East Airlines (MEA) in response to concerns raised by pilot groups. The pilots have reportedly voiced apprehension about being compelled to operate flights in proximity to active airstrikes and facing penalties for reporting safety incidents.

The audit places increased scrutiny on MEA, the Beirut-based flag carrier. The airline has been instrumental in maintaining Lebanon's connectivity amidst ongoing regional conflict and severe economic downturn. Many international airlines have altered routes to avoid airspace risks associated with the US-Israeli war against Iran, which began in February.

MEA, operating a fleet of approximately 20 aircraft across the Middle East, Europe, and West Africa, has been lauded domestically for its continued operations. It plays a vital role in supporting Lebanon's economy, which is heavily reliant on tourism and remittances from its expatriate population.

The airline asserts that it upholds a robust safety record. It stated that flights conducted during periods of military hostilities are based on comprehensive risk assessments developed in collaboration with the Lebanese government and the Lebanese Civil Aviation Authority (LCAA). However, the International Federation of Air Line Pilots' Associations (IFALPA) has expressed significant concern, particularly given that Israeli airstrikes have occurred near Beirut's main airport.

IFALPA President Ron Hay, in a letter to Lebanon's central bank, described flying civilian aircraft in high-risk conflict zones as an "unconscionable risk." The Lebanese Civil Aviation Authority head, Mohammed Aziz, confirmed that an audit would be conducted and that dialogue with MEA would take place to address the pilots' concerns. MEA also noted that its chairman's son and the LCAA chairman's son are both captains at the airline and have flown during the period in question.

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While some may think that flying civilian aircraft and passengers in high-risk and conflict zones during war conditions is heroic, we consider this an unconscionable risk.