BEIRUT - Lebanon could soon see its first new locally registered commercial airline in more than five decades, as start-up carrier Mada Airways prepares to launch scheduled passenger flights from René Moawad Airport in Qleiaat.
According to General Manager Imad Raad, the airline plans to begin operations once it receives its Air Operator Certificate (AOC) and rehabilitation works at the airport are completed. Mada Airways intends to operate exclusively from René Moawad Airport in Akkar, making it the first airline to base its commercial operations there.
The airline plans to start with two leased Embraer aircraft: an Embraer 170 that can carry 80 passengers and an Embraer 190 with capacity for nearly 100 passengers. Proposed destinations include Mersin, Dubai, Athens, Jeddah and Cyprus. Raad said ticket prices would be competitive and similar to those offered by low-cost carriers.
Mada Airways would be the first Lebanese-registered commercial airline established since 1969, marking a major development in the country's aviation sector.
Its planned launch comes after the expiry earlier this year of an exclusivity arrangement that had given Middle East Airlines (MEA) sole status as Lebanon's locally registered commercial carrier for more than 50 years.
The end of the agreement has opened the door for new competitors in the market.
Mada Airways is a sister company of IBEX Air Charter, a private jet and charter operator with operations in Beirut and the Democratic Republic of the Congo.
IBEX Air Charter is owned by IBEX Holding, whose shareholders are Ahmad Abdelhussein Hajje (85 percent), journalist Dima Ali Sadek (10 percent), and their daughter Yasmine Hajje (5 percent).
The changing market is also pushing MEA to adjust its strategy. The flag carrier has announced plans to launch a low-cost subsidiary, Fly Beirut, in 2027.
The airline is expected to begin operations with Airbus A320 aircraft and target budget-conscious travelers.
The arrival of Mada Airways and the planned launch of Fly Beirut could bring the first significant competition to Lebanon's commercial aviation sector in decades.
Supporters say the move could increase travel options for passengers, improve connections to regional destinations and help lower airfares.
For now, Mada Airways is waiting for regulatory approval and the completion of airport upgrades before it can begin operations.
