The head of Italy’s National Civil Aviation Authority (ENAC), Pierluigi Di Palma, has emphasized that reopening and expanding air routes with Libya would act as a powerful bridge for integration, dialogue, and shared development between the two countries.
Speaking at the “Italy, Hub of the Mediterranean” conference in Rimini, Di Palma described aviation as an “intangible bridge that unites cultures and peoples, overcoming geopolitical and diplomatic barriers.”
He argued that launching new flight connections, particularly with countries such as Libya, should not be seen solely as a commercial decision but as a strategic and cultural step that strengthens trust and partnership.
According to Italy’s Nova news agency, the Rimini conference brought together senior officials, business leaders, and transportation executives to discuss Italy’s role in regional connectivity. In his remarks, Di Palma singled out Libya as a country where improved aviation links could drive stronger economic cooperation, people-to-people contact, and cultural exchange.
Italy has already begun to cautiously rebuild its aviation ties with Libya after years of disruption. In January, Italian carriers restarted two weekly flights to Tripoli, though these were suspended in May following violent clashes between armed groups in the capital. In June, flights were launched to Benghazi, signaling renewed efforts to normalize air traffic and expand schedules once security conditions improve.
For Rome, strengthening aviation ties with Libya carries both economic and geopolitical weight. Direct flights would not only benefit trade and investment but also underscore Italy’s role as a Mediterranean hub at a time of intense regional competition. For Libya, restoring connections with Europe’s closest neighbor offers a chance to reintegrate into international networks and boost confidence in its path toward stability.
Di Palma concluded that aviation should be viewed as more than transport infrastructure—it is a symbol of dialogue and trust that can open the way to deeper cooperation across the Mediterranean.
