Libya’s Ground Services Company has announced that Egypt’s airline, Air Cairo, will resume its flights to Mitiga and Benina airports, beginning in mid-December.
According to the company, Air Cairo plans to operate four weekly flights from Mitiga Airport in Tripoli to Cairo Airport. Additionally, it will conduct four weekly flights from Benghazi’s Benina Airport to Alexandria’s Borg El Arab Airport. This restoration of services comes as part of efforts to boost connectivity between Libya and Egypt, providing greater access for travelers and business professionals alike.
Air Cairo’s return to Libyan airspace is expected to facilitate travel between the two countries, benefiting both personal and business interests, and marking a positive step for Libyan-Egyptian relations.
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.