Air Transport Union Warns Against Power Cuts at Airport: Do Not Punish Aviation Sector for State Dues

The Air Transport Union in Lebanon (UTA), in a statement, commented on the decision by Electricite du Liban and the Ministry of Energy to cut electricity to Beirut-Rafic Hariri International Airport, denouncing what it described as resorting to direct punishment against the aviation sector, and warning of the repercussions of this step on one of the most vital and strategic facilities in the country.

The Union noted that "Beirut-Rafic Hariri International Airport is Lebanon's gateway to the world and a fundamental pillar of the national economy," considering that "instead of coordinating with the relevant authorities at the airport, from the Ministry of Transport and the Regulatory Body to Beirut Airport Company operating the airport and its facilities, electricity was cut off to the airport and all its facilities, causing losses and disruption, were it not for the wisdom and professionalism of the operating company."

It pointed out that "taxes and fees imposed on the airport go to the Ministry of Finance, which handles the transfer of dues," arguing that it would have been more appropriate for the Ministry of Energy and Electricite du Liban to coordinate with the Ministry of Finance instead of resorting to measures that negatively impact the aviation sector and the airport's various facilities.

The Union clarified that communications took place at the highest levels, leading to the restoration of electricity, but noted that the Ministry of Energy continues to direct its threats at the wrong party, while addressing the issue requires reviewing the Council of Ministers and the Ministry of Finance, where the due funds are located.

The Union, representing workers in the airport and aviation sectors, affirmed its condemnation of "the Ministry of Energy and Electricite du Liban persisting in negativity and practicing vindictiveness against a vital and strategic sector like the airport," calling on the Ministry of Energy to realize the extent of damage that could be inflicted on Lebanon and its connection to the outside world as a result of these practices.

The statement concluded with a warning against resorting to additional steps to defend Lebanon's interests and those of workers in the sector and their continuity of work, issuing an appeal to the government stating: "The airport, at all service and professional levels, is the only institution remaining after the great collapse; do not add another major unnecessary problem to our country."