Number of Airport Passengers Down 24.17% Annually YTD by August 2026 to 3,581,861 Passengers
The cumulative activity at Rafic Hariri International Airport declined by 24.17% year on year to 3,581,861 travelers by August 2026, reflecting the impact of the renewed conflict between Israel and Hezbollah, which disrupted travel demand and airline activity despite the ceasefire announced in mid-April. Total arrivals reached 1,814,097, down by 26.57% year on year, while departures fell by 21.54% to 1,766,630. Meanwhile, transit passengers increased by 45.14% year on year to 2,553 albeit from a low base.
Airport activity dropped in August 2026, with total passengers decreasing by 10.04% year on year to 835,903 travelers. Total arrivals, departures and transit declined by 6.61%, 12.59 and 25.07% respectively reaching 369,812, 465,804 and 287 travelers.
On a monthly basis, airport activity rebounded, with total passengers increasing by 15.78% compared to July 2026. The improvement was driven by the gradual resumption of flight operations and improved travel conditions following the easing of hostilities. Nevertheless, as summer season is ending, arrivals dropped by 15.39% departures increased by 63.68%, and transit passengers decreased by 20.28%.
Annual YTD Passengers Activity:
Monthly and YoY Passengers Activity:
Beirut’s Rafic Hariri International Airport YTD Activity by August:
Sources: Rafic Hariri International Airport, BLOM Bank
By Marybel Estephan
