The first planes arrive at Qlayaat the airport prepares for takeoff

The first plane operated by the company managing Qlayaat Airport has arrived ahead of the planned launch of partial civilian operations in late October 2026.

Work is accelerating on the temporary passenger terminal, which has expanded from 2,000 to 4,700 square metres, alongside runway, infrastructure, and commercial flight preparations.

The airport aims to serve up to 2 million passengers annually, starting with around 114,000 in its first year. Security and logistical preparations are also underway, including upgrades to the airport road and entrance.

The launch would return Qlayaat Airport to Lebanon’s civil aviation map after decades of closure.