Beirut Air Base is a military base owned by the Lebanese Armed Forces and operated by the Lebanese Air Force. It is located 9 km from the city center in the southern suburbs of Beirut, Lebanon.Currently, the Lebanese Air Force occupies part of the west end of the Beirut Rafic Hariri International Airport and has been the base of most of the helicopter force for almost 50 years, which include the Hawker Hunters, Fouga Magisters and other aircraft during certain periods.HistoryAfter the formation of the air force, the Beirut Air Base was established in 1950. During the early years, Rayak was the main air base; however, the air force wanted to establish another air base close to the capital and after studying most of the areas around Beirut, it was concluded that the new site for the Beirut International airport in Khalde was best fit.InventoryThe military base is currently the home of the Tenth Squadron and Eleventh Squadron, which operate Bell UH-1H Hueys. In addition to the Eight Squadron which operates Aerospatiale SA.342 Gazelles.