Libyan Airlines has issued a formal apology after canceling flight LN193 from Istanbul to Tripoli, which was scheduled for Friday. The airline said the cancellation was due to circumstances beyond its control.
In an official statement posted on its social media pages, the national carrier confirmed that all affected passengers will receive a full refund of their tickets without deductions. Refund procedures will be processed through the airline’s accredited offices across Libyan cities.
In what has been described as an unprecedented step, Libyan Airlines also announced that passengers impacted by the cancellation will be granted a special discount on future bookings, as a gesture of appreciation for their understanding and continued trust in the national airline.
The company stressed that passenger safety and service quality remain its top priorities, noting that every effort is being made to maintain flight regularity and to provide alternative solutions whenever emergencies beyond its control occur.
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.