Lebanon launches safety audit of Middle East Airlines after pilot safety complaints

Summary

Lebanon's aviation regulator has launched a safety audit of Middle East Airlines (MEA) after pilot groups raised concerns that crews were being asked to fly near air strikes and faced repercussions for reporting compromised safety. The review places new scrutiny on the Beirut-based national carrier, which has continued operating throughout conflict and economic turmoil while many foreign airlines have avoided large parts of Middle East airspace due to heightened missile and drone threats since the US-Israeli war against Iran began.