- ICAO found Beirut Rafic Hariri International lacks valid certification.
- The airport lacks an emergency plan according to the report.
- Lebanon’s Civil Aviation Authority lacks air traffic control licensing inspectors.
- The finding sets back plans to revive direct US-Lebanon flights.
- Restrictions were first imposed in 1985 after a TWA hijacking.
The International Civil Aviation Organisation has found that Beirut Rafic Hariri International lacks valid certification according to a report summary. The finding sets back plans to revive direct US-Lebanon flights. The report also noted that the airport lacks an emergency plan and Lebanon’s Civil Aviation Authority lacks air traffic control licensing inspectors.
Lebanon noted that corrective action is underway but the war with Israel is stalling progress. The restrictions were first imposed in 1985 after a TWA aircraft was hijacked during which an American serviceman on board was killed. The report also noted that aircraft accident investigation capabilities need improvement.
The finding represents a setback for US President Donald Trump’s plan to revive direct US-Lebanon flights. The airport serves as Lebanon’s primary international gateway. The certification issues relate to international aviation safety standards.
