On the evening of 22 November 2024, the skies above Lebanon were alive with activity as IVAO Lebanon hosted its 81st Independence Day Fly-In/Out, a tribute to the unity, resilience, and patriotism of the Lebanese people.

The event began with a historic milestone for IVAO Lebanon: the very first APC exam for the division. To accommodate this significant moment, Beirut Rafic Hariri International Airport (OLBA) operated with its two-runway configuration, managing both arrivals and departures with precision. As the APC exam concluded successfully, a collective sense of achievement set the tone for the rest of the celebration.

In a symbolic gesture of national unity, operations transitioned to using Runway 17 as the sole active runway. This represented the solidarity of Lebanon’s people, who continue to stand strong regardless of the challenges they face. Pilots navigated the evening winds, embracing the spirit of the celebration as they departed to global destinations or returned home to OLBA, each flight requiring a minimum one-hour block time.

For those who preferred staying close to home, VFR flights were a highlight of the evening. Scenic routes between OLBA, OLKA, OLRA, and Z19O offered pilots an opportunity to marvel at Lebanon’s stunning landscapes, guided by dedicated controllers providing full vectoring support.

As the skies grew busier, controllers skillfully managed holding patterns to ensure smooth operations during peak traffic. Pilots came prepared with extra fuel and patience, knowing they were part of a celebration that extended far beyond the cockpit—a celebration of independence, resilience, and pride.

This event was a resounding success, blending history, symbolism, and community spirit into an unforgettable experience. From the first APC exam to the transition to single-runway operations on Runway 17, every moment reflected the strength and unity of the Lebanese people.

To everyone who joined us, thank you for making this Independence Day a remarkable celebration. We can’t wait to see you in our skies again!