Public Works and Transport Minister Fayez Rasamny announced on Tuesday that a new “Fast Track” service will soon be launched at Beirut International Airport (BIA), designed to ease passenger flow, accelerate boarding, and increase the airport’s annual capacity by two million travelers.
Speaking at the ceremony celebrating the 80th anniversary of Middle East Airlines (MEA), Rasamny said the new Beirut airport will be “modern, elegant, and efficient,” with a boutique-style design that merges luxury, comfort, and smart technology.
He added that renovation work is already underway, including upgrades to the departure area, modernization of the VIP lounge, and the installation of artistic pieces throughout the terminal.
Rasamny also revealed that the ministry is reactivating Rene Moawad Airport in Al-Qlayaat to “connect northern Lebanon to the world and drive regional development.”
Paying tribute to MEA, Rasamny hailed the airline’s resilience and national importance. “No one who witnessed MEA flights during recent airstrikes on Beirut can fail to recognize the value of its pilots, crews, and aircraft to the nation,” he said, addressing MEA Chairman Mohammad al-Hout. The President of the Republic Joseph Aoun awarded Middle East Airlines the Lebanese Order of Merit in recognition of its role.
The ceremony, attended by Prime Minister Nawaf Salam, First Lady Neemat Aoun, and senior officials, also featured remarks from al-Hout, who announced the launch of Fly Beirut, a new low-cost subsidiary of MEA.
Al-Hout assured that the new airline will maintain MEA’s safety standards while offering budget-friendly travel options. He also revealed plans to restore Beirut’s role as a regional maintenance hub, which will involve building new facilities, and announced that MEA will receive six new aircraft next year.
Comments