LEBANON - Lebanese President Joseph Aoun welcomed US President Donald Trump's decision to lift longstanding restrictions on air travel between the United States and Lebanon, potentially paving the way for direct flights to resume after more than four decades.
In a statement posted on X, the Lebanese Presidency said the decision reflected confidence in measures taken by the Lebanese state to ensure civil aviation safety and protect air traffic to and from Beirut.
Restrictions Lifted After Decades
Direct flights between the two countries have been suspended since 1985, following the hijacking of TWA Flight 847 and the killing of an American serviceman during the Lebanese civil war.
President signed a presidential memorandum in late September revoking four presidential orders issued in 1985, 1992, 1998 and 2007. The memorandum stated that the restrictions were no longer necessary to protect aircraft operating to or from Lebanon from unlawful seizure.
Under Presidential Order 2026-25, Trump directed the US Secretary of Transportation to implement the decision immediately and cancel conflicting regulations and directives.
The issue was discussed during President Aoun's visit to the White House in July, when Trump announced plans to restore direct flights.
Security Assessments Still Required
The decision does not mean direct services can resume immediately. US technical and security assessments will still be required, including reviews of airport infrastructure, passenger screening, aviation safety systems and cooperation between Lebanese and American authorities.
President Aoun reaffirmed Lebanon's commitment to international aviation safety standards and said passenger safety and the security of Beirut's Rafic Hariri International Airport remained priorities.
The Lebanese Embassy in Washington also welcomed the decision, describing it as a sign of confidence in the security measures implemented by Lebanese authorities.
Potential Economic Benefits
Beirut–New York has been cited in reports as a possible route for the initial resumption of services. Lebanon's national carrier, Middle East Airlines, said in July that it had aircraft capable of operating the route.
Direct flights could benefit Lebanon's diaspora in North America by reducing the need for connections through Europe. They could also support tourism, investment and commercial ties as Lebanon seeks to revive its crisis-hit economy.
