President Aoun Meets Al-Hout to Review Beirut Airport Traffic

President Joseph Aoun received the Chairman of the Board and General Manager of Middle East Airlines (MEA), Mohammed Al-Hout. They reviewed air traffic at Rafic Hariri International Airport, the company's situation and its employees, as well as the progress achieved over the past years despite the difficult circumstances Lebanon has faced.

In this context, Al-Hout informed President Aoun about the schedule for the arrival of the first batch of new aircraft purchased by the company, starting next November. This batch includes four Airbus 321RLX and Airbus NEO 330 planes. The second batch, also comprising four aircraft, is expected to arrive before the first half of 2027.

He noted that "the Airbus NEO 330 aircraft, dedicated to long-haul flights, will operate on the Beirut–New York route, which is currently being prepared for launch, in accordance with the agreement reached during President Aoun's visit to Washington and his talks with US President Donald Trump."

Al-Hout also briefed President Aoun on preparations for the launch of Fly Beirut in June 2027, offering discounted fares. He mentioned the acquisition of three aircraft to operate within the new company, while three other planes are being equipped for the same purpose.

President Aoun expressed his appreciation for the efforts made to develop Middle East Airlines and the progress it has achieved in recent years, praising its management and staff—pilots, technicians, and administrators—who have made it a bright image of Lebanon in the world.