Afriqiyah Airways, a state-owned airline based in Tripoli, Libya, is set to redirect its flight operations to Port Sudan, by the end of January, moving away from Khartoum Airport amidst the current conflict.
This significant development was announced by Almoez Ben Esmail, the Director Of the International Relations & Cooperation Office at Afriqiyah Airways.
Ben Ismail explained that the decision to switch to Port Sudan comes after assessing the feasibility of resuming flights to the area, considering the unstable situation in Khartoum. This move is a strategic response to ensure passenger safety, and uninterrupted airline service.
He further noted that the resumption of flights to Ubari Airport depends on a clearance from the Civil Aviation Authority, regarding the airport’s operational readiness. Afriqiyah Airways will deploy a team to evaluate Ubari Airport’s logistics, service, and security, before resuming flights.
Ben Ismail also highlighted that Afriqiyah Airways’ commercial department is actively conducting charter flights, and is fully equipped to continue supporting the repatriation of migrants as part of the International Organization for Migration’s (IOM) voluntary return program.
The decision to reroute flights reflects a proactive approach to adapting to the challenges posed by regional conflicts. The situation in Khartoum, marked by political unrest and heavy clashes, has necessitated a shift in aviation strategies to maintain essential air services in safer regions.
Port Sudan offers a strategic alternative for Afriqiyah Airways, ensuring the airline’s continued operations in a safer, and more stable environment. This move is not only vital for passenger safety, but also showcases the airline’s flexibility in navigating complex geopolitical situations.
The ongoing instability in Sudan has significantly impacted the aviation sector, underscoring the importance of airlines in maintaining regional connectivity, and offering crucial services amid the turmoil.
Notably, Libya has been in chaos since a NATO-backed uprising toppled longtime leader Muammar Gaddafi in 2011. The county has for years been split between rival administrations.
Libya’s economy, heavily reliant on oil, has suffered due to the ongoing conflict. The instability has led to fluctuations in oil production and prices, impacting the global oil market and Libya’s economy.
The conflict has led to a significant humanitarian crisis in Libya, with thousands of people killed, and many more displaced. Migrants and refugees using Libya as a transit point to Europe have also faced dire conditions.