Lebanese President Joseph Aoun welcomed the decision by U.S. President Donald Trump to lift a nearly four-decade-old ban on direct flights between Lebanon and the United States. The announcement was made public on Saturday, although the decision to revoke the restrictions had been ordered nearly two weeks earlier.

The original flight ban was imposed in 1985 by the Reagan administration following the hijacking of TWA Flight 847, amid concerns over aviation security. Trump’s move reflects increased confidence in Lebanon’s efforts to improve civil aviation safety, according to President Aoun.

The Lebanese Embassy in Washington also expressed support for the decision, calling it an important milestone and a positive indicator of trust in the security measures implemented by Lebanese authorities. This development could pave the way for the resumption of commercial air travel between the two countries, which has been suspended for 41 years.

Sources indicate that the Beirut-New York route is the priority for reinstating direct flights, with efforts underway to finalize the necessary arrangements. However, officials emphasize that the lifting of the ban does not guarantee immediate resumption of services. Both Lebanon and the United States must complete a series of regulatory, security, and operational procedures before flights can restart. This includes securing U.S. government approvals and establishing formal air transport agreements between the two nations.

The resumption of direct flights is expected to facilitate stronger ties and boost travel and commerce between Lebanon and the United States once all requirements are met.