U.S. civilian airlines are preparing to restart flights to Lebanon early next year, in a move seen as one of the clearest signs yet of Washington’s bid to stabilize the country after years of political paralysis and regional tension, Nidaa Al-Watan newspaper reported. 

Travel applications in the United States already show tickets on sale, with the U.S. national carrier and Alaska Airlines listing Beirut as a destination once again. Other international airlines that operate in the American market are also expected to add Beirut to their schedules.

The prospect of direct flights marks a striking shift. For more than a decade, Lebanon’s sole civilian gateway, Rafik Hariri International Airport in Beirut, has remained disconnected from the U.S. aviation network, even as Washington deepened its security presence in the region.

The move comes as the Trump administration places Lebanon back on its Middle East agenda, after years of relative neglect by previous U.S. administrations. In Washington, officials frame Lebanon’s future as part of a wider effort to redraw the regional map, rein in Hezbollah, and curb Iranian influence.

In this climate, civil aviation has emerged as an unexpected but symbolic battleground. While Washington maintains a military presence at Hamat Air Base, the return of civilian flights reflects confidence that Lebanon can be shielded from further instability.

Yet the new listings raise questions as well. Beginning in spring 2026, American booking platforms show options not only for Beirut but also for airports in North Lebanon, South Lebanon and the Bekaa Valley — facilities that are not yet active for commercial travel. Prices are even displayed: a September ticket from Los Angeles to North Lebanon Airport is listed at $997 on the U.S. national carrier, while Turkish Airlines is offering a March flight for $785.

Lebanon’s sovereignist forces have long pushed to reopen dormant facilities such as Qlayaat in the north or Rayak in the Bekaa. But the sudden appearance of multiple airports on international booking systems has fueled speculation that major political or security shifts are being prepared behind the scenes.