IVAO LEBANON – FIRST ANNIVERSARY

IVAO Lebanon Turns One — And the Skies Came Alive

On the evening of April 19, 2025, the virtual skies above Lebanon carried more than just aircraft — they carried pride, memories, and a sense of belonging. From 18:00z to 21:00z, IVAO Lebanon celebrated its first anniversary with an event that was not backed by HQ, not promoted with fanfare or incentives, but fueled entirely by something much stronger: friendship and a growing community.

As traffic began to build up at Beirut (OLBA), the atmosphere was electric. With 8 arrivals, 8 departures, and a single flight crossing overhead, the airport felt more alive than ever. But this wasn’t just numbers — it was a show of support from people who have flown with us, controlled with us, and believed in what IVAO Lebanon stands for.

Elsewhere in the FIR, Kleyate (OLKA) saw 3 departures, and Hamat (Z19O) quietly welcomed a single inbound flight — humble stats, but each flight a meaningful gesture from a pilot who chose to share in this moment with us.

No HQ support, no external push — just people who have become friends, logging in to be part of our story. And that’s what made this evening unforgettable.

With 21 total movements during the three-hour window, the skies over Lebanon weren’t just busy — they were united. This event was proof that our division has grown into something real, something warm, and something personal. A place where members don’t just show up for events… they show up for each other.

As the sun set over Beirut and the last aircraft shut down, one thing became clear: this is only the beginning. IVAO Lebanon’s first year was about building — the years to come will be about perfection.