Air Arabia resumes flights to Beirut as regional air travel gradually recovers

Friday 17 April 2026 - 11:45

Air Arabia has become the second United Arab Emirates airline to announce the resumption of flights to Beirut, signaling a gradual recovery in regional air travel following recent geopolitical tensions in the Middle East.

The airline confirmed that it plans to restart services between Sharjah and Beirut from April 23, according to information shared with its partners in Lebanon. The decision comes as several carriers cautiously resume operations after disruptions caused by conflict and temporary airspace restrictions across the region.

The move follows a similar announcement by FlyDubai, which is set to operate its first return flight to Beirut shortly. Other major carriers, including Emirates, have not yet confirmed any plans to restart services to the Lebanese capital.

The suspension of flights in recent weeks was largely driven by instability linked to regional conflict, which affected air transport across multiple countries and led to temporary closures of airspace. As ceasefire arrangements begin to ease tensions, airlines are gradually restoring connectivity.

Other regional carriers are also returning to the Lebanese market. Qatar Airways has already resumed daily flights between Doha and Beirut, while Royal Jordanian and Iraqi Airways are preparing to restart regular operations in the coming days.

However, several European and international airlines, including Air France and Turkish Airlines, are expected to remain absent from Beirut International Airport until at least May, depending on further developments in the region.

The gradual return of airlines highlights a cautious but steady recovery of aviation links in the Middle East, as stability slowly improves after weeks of disruption.