On Saturday, Royal Jordanian Airlines resumed its flights to Tripoli’s Mitiga International Airport, marking the end of a ten-year hiatus. This significant step was accompanied by a visit from a delegation of 14 aviation experts led by Jordanian Aviation Security Director Abdullah Al-Nsour. The delegation was welcomed by the Libyan Aviation Security Director, the Mitiga Airport Director, and several heads of security and protocol departments at the airport.
Royal Jordanian Airlines, Jordan’s national carrier, ceased its operations in Tripoli in 2014 due to the escalating conflict and security concerns in Libya. The country’s civil unrest had led to a significant disruption in air travel, with many international airlines suspending their services to Libyan airports.
Libya, after the fall of Muammar Gaddafi in 2011, has faced years of instability and conflict. The situation has severely impacted its infrastructure, including its aviation sector. Mitiga International Airport, located near the capital city of Tripoli, has been a focal point in the efforts to restore normalcy and improve the connectivity of Libya with the rest of the world.
The last visit by a Royal Jordanian delegation was in 2021, during which all necessary requirements were met to facilitate the resumption of flights between Amman and Tripoli. The resumption of flights between Amman and Tripoli is seen as a positive development, reflecting an improvement in the security situation and efforts to rebuild the country’s aviation infrastructure.
The reopening of this route not only facilitates travel and trade between Jordan and Libya but also serves as a symbol of the gradual recovery and rebuilding of Libya’s international connections. This move is expected to encourage other international airlines to consider resuming their services to Libya, thus enhancing the country’s global integration.
The successful resumption of Royal Jordanian flights is anticipated to boost tourism and business travel between the two nations. It will also provide a crucial link for Libyans seeking medical treatment, education, and other services in Jordan. For Jordanians, it opens up opportunities to explore business ventures and cultural exchanges in Libya.