Lebanon’s flag carrier MEA axes plan to only accept dollar payments amid backlash – The National

Lebanon’s flag carrier MEA axes plan to only accept dollar payments amid backlash – The National

Lebanon's flag carrier MEA axes plan to only accept dollar payments amid backlash. Lebanon's Middle East Airlines has scrapped its plan to only accept payment in dollars starting from Monday, after the decision sparked anger among the Lebanese public.. Earlier on Sunday, Lebanon's National News Agency reported that the flag carrier, which is owned by Lebanon's central bank, would accept card payments and bank cheques as long as the transactions are made in a foreign currency.. "The Middle East Airlines and other airline companies operating in Lebanon announced Sunday that, starting tomorrow they will accept payments in dollars," NNA said on its website.. "The company also announced all card payments will be accepted in addition to bank cheques, provided that the operation is in foreign currency.". The airline's decision sparked furore online and the hashtag #boycottmea was trending on social media.. "MEA: A national airline that does not accept payment in its own national currency.. Last week, the government formally asked the International Monetary Fund for help to overcome its economic crisis, but stopped short of requesting a bailout package.. An IMF deal could involve a restructuring that would mean 70 per cent of the government's debt is