Eko Hot News reports that Trump made the announcement after hosting President Aoun in the Oval Office, where both leaders discussed bilateral relations, regional developments and Lebanon’s efforts to strengthen its institutions and economy.
In a statement shared on Truth Social, Trump praised Aoun’s leadership and efforts to transform Lebanon. He described the Lebanese leader as highly respected and said relations between both countries remain strong.
Trump also announced that he had directed his administration to permit U.S. airline carriers to operate direct flights to Lebanon. According to him, the decision will make it easier for Americans to visit the Middle Eastern nation.
The U.S. President expressed hope that other countries would adopt similar measures to improve international travel links with Lebanon and support tourism and economic engagement.
If implemented, the decision would pave the way for the first direct commercial flights between the United States and Lebanon in several decades.
Direct air service between the two countries has been unavailable since 1985, when U.S. airlines were prohibited from operating flights to Lebanon because of security concerns.
Although some restrictions were eased by previous administrations to allow ticket sales involving connecting flights, direct commercial flights remained suspended for many years.
The latest announcement signals a significant policy shift by the Trump administration and reflects renewed engagement with Lebanon under President Aoun’s leadership.
During their Oval Office meeting, Trump welcomed Aoun and described Lebanon as a country with enormous potential. He said he was pleased to receive the Lebanese President and reaffirmed America’s commitment to maintaining positive relations.
Aoun, who previously served as commander of the Lebanese Armed Forces before assuming the presidency, has focused on rebuilding public institutions and restoring confidence in the country’s governance.
The meeting also included discussions on regional security issues, including Iran and efforts to strengthen the authority of the Lebanese state. Both leaders addressed the importance of maintaining stability and supporting national institutions.
Trump reiterated his administration’s position on preventing nuclear weapons development and stressed that the United States remains committed to addressing issues related to regional security.
The leaders also discussed Hezbollah and the importance of ensuring that the Lebanese government maintains full authority over state institutions in accordance with national laws.
Beyond security matters, both presidents explored opportunities to deepen cooperation in trade, investment and people-to-people exchanges between the United States and Lebanon.
Analysts believe the restoration of direct air links could encourage tourism, strengthen business relations and make travel more convenient for members of the Lebanese diaspora living in the United States.
The announcement has also generated interest within the aviation industry, as airlines assess potential opportunities for launching direct services once regulatory requirements are completed.
However, administration officials have not confirmed when the first flights will begin or identified which U.S. carriers may operate the new routes.
Authorities have also not announced whether additional aviation, safety or regulatory approvals will be required before airlines can commence operations.
Industry experts note that launching new international routes typically involves coordination between aviation authorities, airlines and airport operators in both countries.
The Trump administration is expected to provide further details as implementation plans progress. Additional guidance for airlines and passengers may also be issued in the coming months.
The decision marks a new chapter in U.S.-Lebanon relations, highlighting renewed diplomatic engagement and efforts to expand cooperation beyond politics into travel, commerce and economic development.
For many travellers, business operators and members of the Lebanese-American community, the planned restoration of direct flights could improve connectivity and create fresh opportunities for cultural and commercial exchanges between both nations.
