On Thursday, Libya’s Minister of Transport, Mohamed Al-Shahoubi, met with a delegation from the Italian Civil Aviation Authority (ENAC), led by Director General Fabio Nicolai, to discuss ways to enhance technical cooperation in the aviation sector.
The meeting, held in Tripoli, focused on strengthening Libya’s aviation capabilities and preparing for upcoming European and international audits to meet required safety and operational standards.
Libya has been working to upgrade its civil aviation infrastructure and regulatory framework as part of efforts to lift European Union airspace restrictions that have been in place since 2014.
The talks emphasized the need for improved technical readiness and compliance with global aviation standards. The Italian delegation reaffirmed its commitment to supporting Libya through technical assistance and expertise, ensuring that Libyan authorities are well-equipped to meet the necessary requirements.
Minister Al-Shahoubi praised the long-standing cooperation between Libya and Italy, highlighting the importance of continued collaboration in strengthening aviation safety, regulatory oversight, and air traffic management.
The discussions focused on modernizing airport operations, airline safety protocols, and technical training for Libyan aviation personnel.
The European Union’s ban on Libyan airlines, imposed due to safety concerns and regulatory gaps, has significantly impacted air travel, forcing Libyan passengers to rely on transit routes through Tunisia, Turkey, and Egypt for international flights.
Lifting these restrictions is a key priority for Libyan aviation authorities, who are working to meet the standards set by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) and the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA).
Italy has been a key partner in Libya’s aviation sector, providing assistance in training, regulatory reforms, and air traffic control upgrades.
This partnership is expected to play a crucial role in Libya’s efforts to restore direct flights to European destinations, strengthen aviation security measures, and improve overall operational efficiency.
The meeting was attended by the Commercial Attaché of the Italian Embassy in Tripoli, along with specialists from the Libyan Ministry of Transport and the Libyan Civil Aviation Authority.
As Libya continues its aviation reform efforts, international cooperation will be essential in overcoming existing challenges and ensuring compliance with global safety standards. With Italy’s support, Libya is taking important steps toward restoring its aviation sector, re-establishing air links with Europe, and boosting economic recovery through enhanced connectivity.
