BEIRUT (Enmaeya News) - December 3, 2025

Lebanon is witnessing a sharp rise in interest from low-cost airlines, as multiple carriers expand operations to Beirut and the country’s national airline prepares to enter the budget-travel market.

The trend marks one of the most significant shifts in Lebanon’s aviation sector in years, despite ongoing economic and political pressures.

Beginning December 4, Oman-based SalamAir will launch a new Beirut–Muscat route, adding another Gulf connection for Lebanese travelers.

The expansion follows a similar move by Germany’s Eurowings, which recently began flights between Beirut and both Prague and Salzburg. These routes join the carrier’s existing services to Berlin, Düsseldorf and Stockholm.

Additional growth is expected in 2026, with Norwegian Air Shuttle planning to introduce weekly flights between Stockholm and Beirut starting in April.

According to L'Orient Today, industry observers say the increase in European low-cost carriers reflects rising demand from Lebanon’s diaspora as well as gradual recovery in inbound travel.

The surge comes as Middle East Airlines (MEA) prepares to launch its own low-cost subsidiary, Fly Beirut, in 2027. The project, announced during MEA’s 80th-anniversary celebrations, aims to position the airline competitively against international budget carriers entering the market.

Lebanon’s aviation infrastructure is also changing to accommodate rising traffic. Plans for a second terminal at Rafic Hariri International Airport are moving forward.

Industry experts say the growing presence of low-cost airlines signals renewed confidence in Lebanon’s travel market and could deliver a boost to tourism, mobility and trade in the coming years.