Qatar Airways bans pagers, walkie-talkies in Lebanon flights

Following a directive from Lebanon's Directorate General of Civil Aviation, Qatar Airways has prohibited passengers traveling from Beirut Rafic Hariri International Airport from carrying pagers and walkie-talkies on flights, effective immediately.

Why the Airline ban pagers & walkie-talkies?

The move comes after thousands of walkie-talkies and pagers exploded in Lebanon, resulting in 37 deaths and 2,931 injuries.

The explosions, which occurred on Tuesday and Wednesday, targeted Hezbollah strongholds, particularly in Beirut's southern suburbs.

Lebanese authorities' response

The Lebanese Foreign Ministry described the explosions as a "dangerous and deliberate Israeli escalation," while Hezbollah attributed the attacks to Israel. However, no Israeli officials have claimed responsibility.

Qatar Airways' regulations

The ban applies to both checked and carry-on luggage, as well as cargo, and will be enforced until further notice. Qatar Airways announced the regulations on social media platform X. 

Effective immediately: Following the directive received from the Directorate General of Civil Aviation of the Republic of Lebanon, all passengers flying from Beirut Rafic Harirl International Airport (BEY) are prohibited from carrying pagers and walkie-talkies on board flights.…

— Qatar Airways (@qatarairways) September 19, 2024

The explosions are part of the ongoing 11-month clashes between Israel and Hezbollah, marked by deadly Israeli airstrikes and Hezbollah's attacks on northern Israel.