- US lifted 41-year ban on direct flights to Lebanon
- Trump signed memorandum revoking four executive resolutions
- Ban originally imposed in 1985 after TWA Flight 847 hijacking
- Direct flights require technical and security assessments
- Beirut to New York route could resume first
Lebanon has welcomed a decision by US President Donald Trump to lift a 41-year ban on direct flights between the two countries. Lebanese President Joseph Aoun officially welcomed the decision on 10 October 2026. The move is seen as a boost for travel links.
President Trump signed a presidential memorandum revoking four executive resolutions from 1985, 1992, 1998, and 2007. Direct flights were originally suspended by the Reagan administration in 1985 following the hijacking of TWA Flight 847. Trump signalled the policy shift during a bilateral White House meeting with Aoun in July 2026.
Direct flights will not resume immediately. US authorities must conduct technical and security assessments before American carriers can operate. Industry reports suggest a Beirut to New York route could be among the first to resume. Middle East Airlines has stated it possesses aircraft capable of handling the long-haul route. Travellers currently must book connecting flights through regional or European hubs.
