Turkish Airlines Restarts Benghazi Flights After Decade

Turkish Airlines, a prominent member of the Star Alliance, is set to reintroduce flights to Benghazi, Libya after a hiatus of over ten years. The airline will launch its new route between Istanbul Airport and Benina International Airport starting January 14, 2025. This service will operate three times a week on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Sundays, utilizing a mix of Boeing 737-800 and 737-900 aircraft.

A Decade-Long Hiatus Ends
Turkish Airlines suspended its operations to Libya in November 2014 due to severe political instability following the 2011 NATO-backed uprising that ousted long-time dictator Moammar Gadhafi. The ensuing unrest and the division between rival administrations in eastern and western Libya halted international air services, leading to the cessation of flights to Benghazi.

However, in April 2024, Turkish Airlines resumed flights to Libya, initially offering five weekly roundtrips to Tripoli’s Mitiga International Airport. The latest addition of flights to Benghazi marks a significant step in restoring connectivity and supporting Libya’s recovery and economic growth.

Expanded Connectivity in Libya
With the introduction of the Istanbul-Benghazi route, Turkish Airlines aims to enhance travel options within Libya. OAG Schedules Analyser reports that currently, five airlines serve international routes from Benghazi:

• Afriqiyah Airways connects Benghazi to Alexandria and Cairo in Egypt, Amman in Jordan, and Tunis in Tunisia.
• Berniq Airways operates flights to Alexandria, Cairo, Tunis, as well as Dubai, Istanbul, and Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.
• Libyan Airlines offers services to Alexandria and Tunis.
• Belavia connects Benghazi to Minsk, Belarus.
• Egyptair provides flights to Cairo.

Turkish Airlines’ expansion complements ITA Airways’ upcoming route to Tripoli, scheduled to start on January 12, 2025. Despite the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) extending its flight ban over Libyan airspace until the end of April 2025, ITA Airways will operate flights from Rome Fiumicino Airport to Mitiga International Airport on Thursdays and Sundays using Airbus A319 aircraft.

Navigating Safety Concerns
EASA’s latest Conflict Zone Information Bulletin, valid until April 2025, advises airlines to avoid Libyan airspace at all altitudes and flight levels due to a high risk of intentional or unintentional attacks on civil aviation. However, exceptions are permitted for flights to coastal airports like Mitiga International Airport under specific conditions. These include:

• Approaches from the sea
• Full coordination with local authorities and air traffic control
• Completion of a thorough risk assessment

Turkish Airlines adheres to these guidelines to ensure the safety and security of its passengers while restoring essential air services to Libya.

Benefits of the New Route
The reestablishment of the Istanbul-Benghazi route offers numerous benefits:

• Enhanced Connectivity: Facilitates easier travel for business and leisure between Turkey and Libya.
• Economic Growth: Supports Libya’s economic recovery by improving access for tourists and investors.
• Increased Competition: Encourages other airlines to expand their services, potentially leading to better prices and more options for travelers.
• Cultural Exchange: Promotes cultural and social interactions between Libya and Turkey, fostering stronger bilateral relations.

Future Prospects
Turkish Airlines’ return to Benghazi signifies a positive trend towards stabilization and increased international engagement in Libya. As the country continues to recover from years of conflict, improved air connectivity is crucial for its economic and social development. The airline’s commitment to expanding its network in the region underscores its role in supporting Libya’s resurgence on the global stage.

Travelers planning to visit Libya can now look forward to more reliable and frequent flight options, making it easier to explore the country’s rich history, vibrant culture, and beautiful landscapes. For more information on Turkish Airlines’ new routes and booking details, passengers can visit the official Turkish Airlines website or contact their customer service representatives.

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