In a significant move to enhance Libya’s international air connectivity, the Director of Sebha International Airport, Al-Tahir Al-Bousaifi announced plans to resume international flights in the first quarter of 2024. The airport’s expansion into international travel marks a crucial development in Libya’s aviation sector, with Egypt slated as the primary destination.
In a televised interview, Al-Bousaifi shed light on the current operations at Sebha Airport, including domestic flights to Tripoli, Benghazi, and various oil fields. However, international flights have largely been on hold, with the notable exception of a recent flight to Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.
He expressed optimism about the future of international travel from Sebha, attributing it to the Libyan government’s recent investments in airport infrastructure. “Provided the necessary resources continue to be available, we anticipate launching international flights early this year, with Egypt as our most likely first destination,” he noted.
The decision to focus on Egypt underlines the strong historical and economic ties between the two nations. This initiative is anticipated to bolster Libya’s tourism, trade, and diplomatic engagements.
Sebha International Airport, located in Libya’s southern region, has long been a crucial hub for domestic travel. The shift to international flights is seen as a key step in Libya’s broader effort to rehabilitate its aviation industry, which has been hampered by years of political turmoil.
Egypt’s selection as the initial international destination reflects the deep-rooted connection between the two countries. It promises to streamline travel for various purposes including commerce, education, and leisure.
This development is part of Libya’s wider strategy to rebuild and modernize its transport infrastructure. The expansion of international flights from Sebha is not only a milestone for the airport, but also a beacon of progress for Libya’s reintegration into the global community.