Overflight requests rise as air navigation safety improves
LIBYA – The Ministry of Transport in the Dbeibah government has announced that the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) has withdrawn its 2015 warning letter on Libyan airspace and that it has officially begun receiving requests to cross Libyan airspace, with requests rising 30-fold, according to the ministry.
Developing airports, air navigation and safety procedures
Transport Ministry Undersecretary Wesam Al-Idrisi said in an appearance on Libya Al-Ahrar TV, which broadcasts from Turkey — followed by Al-Marsad — that the decision to lift the warning resulted from joint efforts by the Ministry of Transport, the Civil Aviation Authority and the Airports Authority, in cooperation with foreign consultants under the ICAO umbrella. The work included developing airport infrastructure, upgrading navigation services and strengthening international safety and security standards.
Sector readiness and the expected opening of airports
Al-Idrisi affirmed the readiness of the ministry and its affiliated bodies and said international companies were prepared to resume work in Libya, coinciding with the opening of Tripoli and Misrata airports and the reopening of Benina airport, according to him.
Regional connectivity and direct and indirect economic returns
He argued that the resumption of air traffic reflects an improvement in the security situation and strengthens Libya’s position as a hub linking Africa with other parts of the world. He added that the direct benefits include higher state revenues and easier travel for citizens, while the indirect benefits include new investment opportunities and jobs in aviation and related activities.
