In parallel, the General Director of Tripoli International Airport, Mohamed Abdelkader, revealed that the airport recently hosted a trial flight, marking the first such operation after nearly ten years of inactivity.
Abdelkader stated that a navigation control tower has been installed and successfully tested, and that both internal and external security measures have been established to ensure the airport’s safety.
He added that partial flight operations are set to resume at Tripoli International Airport, aimed at supporting Mitiga International Airport by sharing the load of certain flights.
Abdelkader further indicated that construction companies are working diligently to complete the remaining facilities, including the passenger terminal, runway maintenance, and control towers, ensuring that all components are fully operational.
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.
The planned elections for December 2021 were delayed due to disagreements over election laws and the eligibility of certain candidates. This delay has raised concerns about the feasibility of a peaceful political transition.
Despite the ceasefire, security remains a significant concern with sporadic fighting and the presence of mercenaries and foreign fighters. The unification of the military and the removal of foreign forces are crucial challenges.