Beirut-Rafic Hariri International Airport

Overview

Beirut Rafic Hariri International Airport is the main air gateway for Beirut and one of Lebanon’s most important transport hubs, handling international arrivals and departures for the capital and the wider country. Known by the codes BEY and OLBA, it is classed as a large airport and sits at a low elevation of 87 feet, or 27 metres, above sea level. For travellers, that means a major airport close to the city rather than a remote inland field, making it a practical starting point for both business trips and holidays in Lebanon.

What travellers should know

The airport operates on Asia/Beirut time, so it is worth checking local time carefully when planning connections, hotel pickups, or early departures. Because it serves Beirut directly, it is the airport most visitors will use for accessing the city’s waterfront districts, central neighbourhoods, and onward routes across Lebanon. For the latest airport updates, passenger information, and official notices, the most reliable source is the airport’s own website at http://www.beirutairport.gov.lb/.

Airfield facts

• Runway 03/21 is 12,467 feet long, concrete surfaced, and lighted.
• Runway 16/34 is 11,138 feet long, concrete surfaced, and lighted.
• Runway 17/35 is 10,663 feet long, asphalt surfaced, and lighted.
• The airport’s large-airport status and multiple long runways support a wide range of international operations.
• Lighted runways are especially useful for night arrivals and departures, which helps keep schedules flexible for travellers.