Zoaiter: International Civil Aviation Organization Removed Lebanon Off its Travel Safety Red List

Transportation and Public Works Minister Ghazi Zoaiter announced on Monday that the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) has removed Lebanon off its travel safety red list.

He said during a press conference: “Airport security is a concern for each of us … and we sought to remove the Rafik Hariri International Airport off the red list.”

“This does not mean that we can now stand idle, but we should follow up on our achievement and carry out issues that are needed of us.”

“The appointments at the airport were not made out of spite, but they were a product of a tragic situation at the facility. The appointments were aimed at improving the administrative conditions.”

In 2013, ICAO identified a significant safety concern with respect to Lebanon's ability to properly oversee its air operators under its jurisdiction.

In January, France and Britain hinted that they would stop their carriers from landing in Beirut's airport for failing to abide by international standards.

They expressed concern over major problems such as weak inspection of luggage and the failure to implement a plan to equip the facility with more lighting and security cameras.

D.A.

M.T.