Lebanon Moves Towards Opening Second Airport in Northern Region
Translated from Spanish, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- Lebanon is preparing to open a second airport in the country's north, the René Mouawad Airport in Qalayaat.
- The tender for the airport's rehabilitation was awarded to Lebanese operator Sky Lounges Services.
- This move aims to diversify air access routes, as the country currently relies solely on Beirut's Rafic Hariri International Airport.
ABC Color reports on a significant development for Lebanon's infrastructure: the impending opening of a second airport. Minister of Interior Ahmad Hajjar has reviewed preparations for the reopening of the René Mouawad Airport in Qalayaat, a project that has been in the works for years. The recent awarding of the rehabilitation tender to Sky Lounges Services marks a crucial step forward. Currently, Lebanon's air traffic is concentrated at the Rafic Hariri International Airport in Beirut. The reactivation of the Qalayaat airport is intended to diversify air access, a strategic move particularly relevant given the country's history of conflict. While international reports might focus on the security implications or the economic benefits, from a Lebanese perspective, this is about resilience and strategic development. The project's advancement amidst the ongoing conflict with Israel highlights Lebanon's determination to rebuild and expand its critical infrastructure. The assurance that neither the Beirut airport nor its access road will be targeted, despite the current hostilities, underscores the importance of maintaining these vital links. This development signifies a commitment to normalcy and future growth, even in challenging times.
Originally published by ABC Color in Spanish. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.