Lebanon’s Rafic Hariri International Airport is undergoing a series of notable renovations and expansions,announced Wednesday by Minister of Public Works and Transport Fayez Ghosn,as the country aims too bolster economic recovery and attract foreign investment. The phased improvements, already underway, focus on increased passenger capacity and enhanced security protocols, with officials citing a goal to exceed international airport standards. These upgrades are particularly vital given the airport’s role as a key entry point following the devastating 2020 Beirut port explosion [[2]] and the ongoing economic crisis impacting the nation.
Beirut’s Rafic Hariri International Airport is undergoing significant upgrades aimed at increasing capacity and bolstering security, Lebanon’s Minister of Public Works and Transport, Fayez Ghosn, announced Wednesday. The improvements come as the country seeks to revitalize its economy and attract investment.
Ghosn toured the airport Wednesday to inspect progress on renovations to the departure hall. While a ribbon-cutting ceremony marked the completion of a specific phase of the project, the minister clarified that the departure hall is not yet fully open to the public. Work continues in other areas, with a full, official reopening planned after all phases are complete.
“The security at Rafic Hariri International Airport now rivals, and even surpasses, that of many airports around the world,” Ghosn stated following the tour. He emphasized the government’s commitment to maximizing existing resources to achieve tangible improvements.
Recent upgrades include a significantly expanded security inspection area, completed ahead of the holiday season. According to Ghosn, the new inspection area is four times larger than the previous one, with work having begun several months ago. The western section of the airport has also undergone a similar expansion.
Looking ahead, the ministry has unveiled a comprehensive plan to expand the airport’s capacity by an additional 2 million passengers. Ghosn indicated that new sections will open progressively, with the largest expansion slated for completion within a year. Further improvements are planned every three months, promising a dramatically different airport experience within the next 12 months.
Economic Growth Tied to Airport Improvements
Ghosn highlighted the airport’s crucial role as a primary gateway for economic growth, citing its potential to create jobs and attract both investors and Lebanese expatriates. The focus on airport improvements underscores the government’s recognition of its importance to the national economy.
The minister also revealed plans for substantial investments in airport technology, aiming to implement systems and equipment that exceed standards found in many international airports. Details of this comprehensive technology plan will be announced at a later date.
Effective coordination with the Ministers of Finance and Interior is essential, Ghosn stressed, emphasizing that enhanced security measures in both departure and arrival areas are fundamental to ensuring smooth operations.
A “fast track” project, designed to expedite passenger processing, is also on track for completion in March, and will be more extensive than initially anticipated, according to Ghosn.
