Libya’s Buraq Air Acquires First Airbus A320 to Expand Its Fleet

Buraq Air, Libya’s pioneering private airline, has taken a significant step in its expansion efforts by acquiring its first Airbus A320. This marks a notable shift from its long-standing preference for Boeing aircraft, as the airline aims to enhance its operational capabilities within and beyond the conflict-affected North African nation.

Historically based at Mitiga Airport near Tripoli, Buraq Air has predominantly operated Boeing 737 models, including the -200s in the early 2000s and more recently the 737-400 and -800. The addition of the 11-year-old Airbus A320, sourced from a leasing company and previously flown primarily in the Far East, represents a strategic diversification of its fleet.

According to Flightradar 24, the Airbus underwent pre-delivery maintenance at East Midlands Airport in the UK before being ferried to Istanbul Atatürk Airport in Türkiye. It was re-registered in Libya in preparation for its final delivery in October.

Founded in November 2000, Buraq Air was Libya’s first privately-owned airline. It initially connected the country’s oilfields with major cities and later expanded to international destinations, including Istanbul. Its domestic network now includes Labraq, Tobruk, and Sebha, with further routes to Aleppo, Syria, and Rabat, Morocco.

Despite the logistical and economic challenges of integrating a new aircraft type, which involves different maintenance and operational requirements, Buraq Air’s acquisition of the Airbus A320 could offer more versatility and efficiency in its operations. The airline maintains a schedule of international flights primarily to Istanbul, along with charter services to destinations like Alexandria and Tunis.

Buraq Air also supports various humanitarian and commercial operations, such as repatriating detained migrants and collaborating with international service providers like Canada’s CHC for oil industry transportation.

Efforts to obtain further details from the airline about its fleet expansion and future strategy remain ongoing, as initial inquiries have not yet been responded to.