Public Works Minister Fayez Rasamny during a press briefing at Beirut International Airport on Dec. 19, 2026. (Credit: Archive photo Philippe Hage Boutros/L'Orient-Le Jour)
BEIRUT — Public Works and Transportation Minister Fayez Rasamny inaugurated the newly renovated VIP lounge at Beirut's international airport on Thursday. The renovation was funded by Middle East Airlines, Lebanon's national carrier.
"The inauguration of the renovated VIP lounge marks another step in the airport's development, two months after the reopening of the departures hall," Rasamny said, adding that the ministry plans to inaugurate a newly renovated section of the airport every three months.
The ceremony was attended by Interior Minister Ahmad Hajjar, Defense Minister Michel Menassah, Tourism Minister Laura al-Khazen Lahoud, Parliamentary Public Works and Transportation Committee Chair Sajih Attieh, MEA Chairman Mohammad al-Hout and airport chairman Ibrahim Abou Alweh.
Rasamny said his top priority "remains the safety of travelers," stressing that "the airport cannot operate without security."
Located in Beirut's southern suburbs, the airport has faced major challenges over the past three years during successive wars between Hezbollah and Israel. Throughout periods of heavy Israeli airstrikes targeting the southern suburbs, Lebanese authorities maintained airport operations, and the facility remained open almost continuously.
The renovated VIP lounge, designed to receive official delegations and dignitaries, spans nearly 1,100 square meters and can accommodate about 83 guests, Rasamny said. It also includes a fully equipped modern kitchen.
He said renovation work will continue, including upgrades to restrooms, security screening and inspection equipment, and the airport's runways, alongside broader investments in airport infrastructure.
Rasamny also announced that the ministry plans to launch an express lane within the next three months to provide travelers with additional processing options and help reduce congestion in the departures hall.
He added that the airport has been regaining activity since the cease-fire largely spared Beirut and is now serving more than 12,000 passengers a day.
For his part, Hout said MEA is prepared to contribute to the airport expansion project, which he estimated would cost around $500 million.
