The ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah has triggered a cautious resumption of air traffic at Beirut's Rafic-Hariri International Airport. While the airport remained technically open during the conflict, most international traffic was handled solely by Middle East Airlines (MEA), which maintained a reduced schedule adjusted daily based on security risks and insurance constraints. This continuity preserved minimal connectivity, especially to Europe and select regional capitals.
Now, with relative calm, several foreign carriers have announced their return. Emirates and EgyptAir will resume flights by late April, restoring key links to Dubai and Cairo. Qatar Airways had already resumed daily services, with plans to increase frequency. Turkish Airlines and Pegasus are also back, along with Iraqi Airways, FlyDubai, Jazeera Airways, Air Arabia, Etihad, Kuwait Airways, Cyprus Airways, and SundAir. European carriers like Air France will restart Paris-Beirut flights in late June.
This gradual return reflects cautious confidence, contingent on the evolving security situation. For ATPL and ATC students, this case illustrates how airlines manage operations in conflict zones—balancing safety, insurance, and demand. It also highlights the critical role of national carriers like MEA in maintaining connectivity during crises, a key consideration in aviation risk management and contingency planning.