The General Command of the Libyan National Army (LNA) said that the Commander-in-Chief Field Marshal Khalifa Haftar instructed the Civil Aviation Authority to reopen Al-Abraq Airport and operate domestic and international flights.
The LNA stated that the decision aims to “lift the suffering and ease the burdens on our people in the eastern region.
On May 6th, the administration of Al-Abraq International Airport urged all airlines to open international routes through the airport, confirming the airport’s full readiness.
The airport administration also confirmed the readiness of aviation services companies operating at the airport, such as handling companies, fuel supply, equipment and supplies, in addition to the efficiency of the multiple security system, communication and air navigation devices.
In October 2017, Libyan Airlines announced that it had stopped all its operations at Al-Abraq International Airport for security and safety reasons.
Last month, Haftar emphasised the necessity of implementing the “civilizational plan for Benghazi in accordance with engineering and technical conditions, quality standards, and sustainable development criteria.” This aims to transform the city into an economic and cultural capital.
These remarks came during Haftar’s meeting with the head of the Benghazi Municipality Steering Council, and representatives from Greece’s LEEAD Consulting Company.
The LNA Commander noted that he had issued instructions to the Benghazi Municipality back in 2019. His directives included the “immediate initiation of steps for the reconstruction and development of the city. Our investment in this crucial strategic initiative aligns with our commitment to our martyrs who sacrificed their lives for Benghazi’s liberation from dark forces. The inhabitants of the historic city of Benghazi deserve to see their city evolve into a distinguished economic, cultural, and civilisational center.”
The European Union (EU) imposed a ban on all Libyan airlines in European airspace since 2014 over safety concerns. The European safety list of banned airlines included Afriqiyah Airways, Libyan Airlines, Buraq Air, Ghadames Air Transport, Global Aviation and Service Group, Air Libya, and Petro Air.
