As tensions rise between Hezbollah and the Israeli army in the south, fears are growing over a potential comprehensive Israeli war on Lebanon, especially after information emerged about threats Lebanon received regarding an imminent Israeli strike. Concerns have surfaced about the possibility of Israel targeting Rafik Hariri International Airport in Beirut, reminiscent of the situation in 2006 during the July War when Israeli aircraft struck the airport's runway.
Since the onset of the conflict in the south, Middle East Airlines has significantly reduced its operations and has had to relocate a large part of its fleet outside the country to prevent any damage to its most valuable aircraft, according to a report by Bloomberg.
Mohammad El Hout, the head of Middle East Airlines, stated in an interview conducted in Dubai during the annual general meeting of the International Air Transport Association (IATA) that "working under war conditions is truly challenging for management, and it is not easy to operate when things are unclear." He emphasized that "financial results or growth are no longer the priority, as there is obviously no growth."
The conflict in the south has impacted the demand for travel to Beirut, according to Bloomberg. El Hout mentioned that most of Middle East Airlines' passengers these days are Lebanese expatriates returning home for holidays.
Middle East Airlines still has six of its aircraft in Jordan, Turkey, and Cyprus, which is half the number that was previously outside its bases. Due to the displacement operations, the 80-year-old airline has adjusted its routes to accommodate lower demand and a smaller operating fleet, the agency reported.
In this context, the Chairman noted that passenger numbers have decreased by 20% since October 2023. El Hout confirmed that the airline's biggest concern is the repetition of Israeli attacks on Lebanon as occurred in 2006, in which the airport’s three runways sustained significant damage.
He concluded: "Financial conditions can be repaired; what matters most is not to target the airport and not have our aircraft or infrastructure come under strikes."
