Afriqiyah Airways has canceled its scheduled flight from Mitiga International Airport to Cairo International Airport after the aircraft encountered a bird strike. The incident forced the plane to return shortly after takeoff.
In an official statement, the airline explained that the pilot made a prudent decision to return to the airport to ensure the safety of all passengers.
A specialised technical maintenance team is currently conducting comprehensive inspections of the aircraft. The airline confirmed that the plane will resume operations once the necessary checks are completed.
Afriqiyah Airways assured passengers that such incidents are not uncommon in the global aviation industry and are managed according to established safety protocols.
To accommodate affected passengers, two flights are scheduled for today to transport them to Cairo, minimizing travel disruptions.
This precautionary approach underscores the airline’s commitment to prioritising passenger safety.
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.
