AIRLINES OPERATING IN LIBYA PLUS TRAVEL INFO AND ADVICE
The Libyan airline industry has faced various challenges over the years, including:
- Political instability: Since the fall of the Gaddafi regime in 2011, Libya has been plagued by political instability and violence, with different factions vying for control of the country. This has made it difficult for the airline industry to operate smoothly, with frequent disruptions to flights and airport closures.
- Security concerns: The security situation in Libya is volatile. This has led to a decrease in the number of international airlines operating in the country and has affected the confidence of potential passengers.
- Economic challenges: The Libyan economy has been struggling due to the conflict and political instability, leading to a decrease in the purchasing power of citizens. This has affected the demand for air travel, with many Libyans unable to afford to fly.
- Aging infrastructure: The airline industry in Libya has suffered from a lack of investment, and the infrastructure is outdated, with many airports and planes in need of modernization and repair. This has affected the safety and reliability of air travel in the country.
- Sanctions: Libya has faced international sanctions in the past, which have affected the ability of the airline industry to access essential services and technology. This has led to a decrease in the quality of air travel in the country.
The Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) of each country is responsible for regulating and overseeing the civil aviation industry within its jurisdiction. In the case of Libya, the Libyan Civil Aviation Authority (LCAA) is responsible for regulating and overseeing the country’s civil aviation industry, including imposing restrictions when necessary.
Given the current political and security situation in Libya, the LCAA has imposed various restrictions on the airline industry in the country. For example, the LCAA has placed restrictions on the number of flights that can operate to and from certain airports in Libya due to safety concerns. Additionally, the LCAA has implemented security measures such as increased passenger and baggage screening to ensure the safety of air travel.
In addition to safety and security measures, the LCAA has also implemented restrictions on international airlines operating in Libya. Many international airlines have suspended their operations to Libya, and those that continue to operate have to comply with strict regulations imposed by the LCAA.
Currently, there are several Libyan airlines operating both domestically and internationally.
Some of the major Libyan airlines include:
- Libyan Airlines:
- Afriqyah Airways:
- Buraq Air:
- Libyan Wings:
- Ghadamas Air
- Global Air:
- Medsky
- Tunisair
- Tunisair Express
- Petro Air
Note: The Libyan airline landscape is changing continually therefore in preparing to travel it is advisable to check information. For UK travellers please check visa requirements at the end of this document
- LIBYAN AIRLINES – Website: https://libyanairlines.aero
Domestic flights
- From and into > Tripoli, Benghazi, Sabha, Tobruk, Al Abraq,
International flights
- Tripoli > Cairo, Alexandria, Istanbul, Tunis, Jeddah, Amman
- Benghazi > Alexandria, Amman
Libyan Airlines is the flag carrier of Libya, and it is based in Tripoli, Libya. The airline was founded in 1964 as Libyan Arab Airlines and was initially owned by the Libyan government. However, during the 1990s, the airline’s ownership was transferred to the Libyan African Aviation Holding Company, which is a state-owned company that manages several airlines in Libya.
Libyan Airlines operates scheduled flights to several domestic and international destinations. The airline has a fleet of aircraft that includes Airbus A320, Airbus A330, and Bombardier CRJ900 aircraft.
In terms of its structure, Libyan Airlines is a public company that is owned by the Libyan African Aviation Holding Company. The holding company is responsible for managing and overseeing the operations of several airlines in Libya, including Libyan Airlines, Afriqyah Airways, and Buraq Air.
The Libyan African Aviation Holding Company is owned by the Libyan government, and it operates as a subsidiary of the Libyan Investment Authority (LIA), which is the country’s sovereign wealth fund. The LIA is responsible for managing Libya’s oil wealth and investing it in various projects and industries, including aviation.
- AFRIQIYAH AIRWAYS – Website https://afriqiyah.aero/en/
Domestic flights
From and into > Tripoli, Benghazi, Sabha, Tobruk, Al Abraq
International flights
- Tripoli > Cairo, Alexandria, Istanbul, Tunis, Sfax, Jeddah, Khartoum
- Benghazi > Cairo, Alexandria, Istanbul, Tunis, Sfax, Jeddah, Khartoum
- Misrata > Cairo, Alexandria, Istanbul, Tunis, Sfax, Jeddah, Khartoum
Occasionally there are additional flights towards > Niamey and N’Djamena
Afriqiyah Airways is a Libyan airline that was founded in 2001 and commenced operations in December of that year. The airline is headquartered in Tripoli, Libya
The airline is wholly owned by the Libyan state and has a fleet of modern aircraft, including Airbus A319s, A320s, and A330s. The airline’s mission is to provide safe, reliable, and affordable air travel to passengers.
In its early years, Afriqiyah Airways faced several challenges, including a lack of infrastructure and competition from established airlines. However, the airline was able to grow and expand its operations by investing in new aircraft and developing partnerships with other airlines.
In 2011, the airline was affected by the Libyan civil war, which led to the suspension of its operations for several months. However, the airline resumed operations in late 2011 and has continued to grow since then.
Afriqiyah Airways was established as part of Libya’s efforts to modernize and diversify its economy. The airline was created to provide competition to Libyan Arab Airlines, the country’s flag carrier, and to attract more foreign investment and tourism to Libya.
The airline’s fleet initially consisted of leased aircraft, including Boeing 737s and 757s. However, in 2007, Afriqiyah Airways placed a major order for new Airbus aircraft, including A319s, A320s, and A330s. The airline’s modern and fuel-efficient fleet has helped it to reduce costs and increase its competitiveness.
Afriqiyah Airways has also developed partnerships with other airlines, including codeshare agreements with Air Malta and Tunisair. These partnerships allowed the airline to expand its network and offer its passengers a wider range of destinations.
Despite its successes, Afriqiyah Airways has faced some challenges over the years. In addition to the disruption caused by the Libyan civil war in 2011, the airline has also been affected by political instability and economic difficulties in Libya. However, the airline has continued to operate and has remained an important part of Libya’s aviation industry.
- AL-BURAQ AIRLINES – Website: https://www.buraq.aero/
Domestic flights
- From and into > Tripoli, Benghazi
International
- Tripoli > Istanbul
- Benghazi > Alexandria
Al-Buraq Airlines was founded in 2008 by a group of Libyan businessmen who saw a need for a new airline to serve the Libyan market. The airline’s name is derived from the mythical creature known as “al-buraq” in Islamic tradition, which is said to have carried the prophet Muhammad on his night journey from Mecca to Jerusalem.
The airline operates scheduled domestic flights within Libya. Its main hub was at Tripoli International Airport (TIP) but is now at Mitiga International airport
Initially, the airline operated with a single Embraer E-175 aircraft, but it has since expanded its fleet to include several Airbus A319 and A320 aircraft, as well as additional Embraer E-175 aircraft. The airline has also announced plans to acquire more aircraft to expand its fleet and increase its capacity.
In terms of safety, Al-Buraq Airlines is certified by the Libyan Civil Aviation Authority and has passed safety audits conducted by the International Air Transport Association (IATA). However, the airline has faced some challenges due to the political and security situation in Libya, which has affected its operations in the past.
The airline is owned by the Libyan Foreign Investment Company (LAFICO), which is a subsidiary of the Libyan Investment Authority (LIA). LAFICO also owns other Libyan companies in various industries, including tourism, real estate, and agriculture.
In terms of its structure, Al-Buraq Airlines is a privately owned airline that is wholly owned by the Libyan Foreign Investment Company (LAFICO). LAFICO is responsible for managing and overseeing the airline’s operations, while the day-to-day management of the airline is handled by its executive team.
The airline has faced several challenges over the years, including the political and security situation in Libya, which has resulted in the closure of some of its domestic and international routes. In addition, the airline has faced financial difficulties, which have led to the suspension of some of its services.
Despite these challenges, Al-Buraq Airlines remains committed to providing safe, reliable, and affordable air travel to its passengers. The airline has invested in training and development programs for its staff, as well as in technology and infrastructure upgrades to improve its operations and customer service.
Overall, Al-Buraq Airlines is a relatively young airline that is striving to develop its domestic and international routes, while maintaining safety standards and providing quality service to its passengers.
- LIBYAN WINGS – Website: https://libyanwings.aero
Domestic flights
- From and into > Tripoli, Sabha, Tobruk
International
- Tripoli > Istanbul, Tunis
- Misrata > Istanbul, Tunis
Libyan Wings is a privately-owned Libyan airline that was established in 2013. The airline is headquartered in Tripoli, Libya.
The airline was founded by a group of Libyan entrepreneurs who saw an opportunity to provide high-quality air travel to passengers in Libya and the surrounding region. The founders of Libyan Wings believed that there was a demand for a new airline that could offer reliable and efficient air travel, especially in the wake of the disruption caused by the Libyan civil war.
Libyan Wings began operations in 2014 with a fleet of Airbus A319 and A320 aircraft. The airline initially operated flights to Tunis, Istanbul, and several domestic destinations in Libya.
The airline’s focus on safety and customer service has helped it to establish a strong reputation in the region. Libyan Wings has implemented strict safety procedures and operates in accordance with international safety standards. The airline has also invested in the training and development of its staff, and has been recognized for its high levels of customer service.
Libyan Wings has faced some challenges over the years, including the impact of political instability and security concerns in Libya. However, the airline has continued to operate and has remained committed to providing safe and reliable air travel to its passengers.
The airline is managed by a team of experienced aviation professionals, and has a staff of over 100 employees. Libyan Wings operates from its base at Mitiga International Airport in Tripoli, and has a modern and well-maintained fleet of Airbus aircraft.
In addition to its scheduled and charter flights, Libyan Wings has also provided humanitarian support and relief services. The airline has worked closely with international organizations to provide aid to communities affected by natural disasters, conflicts, and other crises.
Libyan Wings has also developed partnerships with other airlines and organizations. In 2016, the airline signed a codeshare agreement with Turkish Airlines, allowing it to offer its passengers access to a wider range of destinations in Europe. The airline has also worked with organizations such as the United Nations and the International Organization for Migration to provide air transport for refugees and displaced persons.
Despite the challenges faced by the aviation industry in Libya, Libyan Wings has continued to grow and expand its operations. The airline has invested in new technologies and has developed innovative solutions to improve efficiency and reduce costs. For example, Libyan Wings has implemented a paperless cockpit system that allows pilots to access all necessary flight information electronically, reducing the need for printed materials and improving efficiency.
Libyan Wings has also been recognized for its commitment to safety and quality. In 2018, the airline received the IOSA (IATA Operational Safety Audit) certification, an internationally recognized standard for airline safety. The airline has also been recognized for its customer service, winning the “Best Airline in North Africa” award at the 2018 Skytrax World Airline Awards.
Overall, Libyan Wings has established itself as an important player in the Libyan aviation industry. The airline’s commitment to safety, customer service, and innovation has helped it to overcome the challenges faced by the industry and to provide high-quality air travel to passengers in Libya and beyond.
- GHADAMAS AIR
International
- Tripoli > Istanbul, Tunis
Ghadamas Air Transport Company, also known as Ghadames Air Transport, is a Libyan airline based in Ghadames, a town in the northwest of Libya. The airline was founded in 2001 and began operating charter flights to domestic and regional destinations in North Africa.
Ghadamas Air Transport Company operates a small fleet of aircraft, including Boeing 737s and Bombardier CRJ200s. The airline’s focus has been on serving the needs of travellers in Western Libya, particularly those in remote and underserved areas.
The airline has faced challenges over the years due to the political instability and security concerns in Libya. However, Ghadamas Air Transport Company has continued to operate and has remained committed to providing safe and reliable air travel to its passengers.
In terms of structure, Ghadamas Air Transport Company is a private company that is owned by a group of Libyan investors. The airline is managed by a team of experienced aviation professionals, and has a staff of around 100 employees. Ghadamas Air Transport Company operates from its base at Ghadames Airport, and has a small network of domestic and regional destinations.
While the airline does not have a large fleet or network compared to other airlines in Libya, Ghadamas Air Transport Company has established a reputation for providing reliable and efficient air travel to its passengers. The airline has also worked to support the local economy in Ghadames by providing employment opportunities and supporting local businesses.
Overall, Ghadamas Air Transport Company has played an important role in connecting communities in western Libya and has demonstrated a commitment to providing safe and reliable air travel to its passengers despite the challenges faced by the Libyan aviation industry.
- GLOBAL AIR – Website; https://globalairt.com/cargo/
Domestic flights
- From and Tripoli > Sabha, Tobruk, Benghazi, Al Abraq, Ghat
- From Benghazi > Tripoli, Misrata
International
- Tripoli > Jeddah
Global Air Libya is predominantly a cargo carrying airline based in Tripoli, Libya. It was founded in 2015 and started operations in 2017. The airline is a subsidiary of Global Aviation and Technology, which is a Libyan-owned company that provides aviation services in the country.
Global Air Libya operates domestic flights within Libya, as well as international flights to destinations. Its fleet consists of several Airbus A320 and A330 aircraft.
The airline’s history is closely tied to the political and economic situation in Libya. The country has experienced a great deal of instability since the overthrow of long-time leader Muammar Gaddafi in 2011. This has had a significant impact on the aviation industry in Libya, which has struggled to recover from the effects of the civil war.
Despite these challenges, Global Air Libya has managed to establish itself as a significant player in the Libyan aviation market. The airline has positioned itself as a low-cost carrier, offering affordable flights to passengers traveling within Libya and to neighbouring countries.
In terms of its structure, Global Air Libya is owned and operated by Global Aviation and Technology. The company is headed by a board of directors, which is responsible for making strategic decisions and overseeing the airline’s day-to-day operations.
Overall, Global Air Libya’s history reflects the challenges and opportunities facing the aviation industry in Libya. Despite the many obstacles it has faced, the airline has managed to establish a foothold in the market and provide an important service to the people of Libya and beyond.
- MEDSKY – Website: https://medsky.aero
Domestic flights
- From and into > Tripoli, Sabha
International
- Tripoli > Malta
- Misrata > Malta
Medsky is a relatively new airline to Libyan aviation operating to Airbus 320s.
The airline company is owned by Mohamed El-Taher Issa, a close associate of Libya’s prime minister, Abdul Hamid Dbeibeh.
The company is the first to be allowed to operate direct flights between Libya and Europe through Malta for the first time since 2014.
- TUNISAIR – Website www.tunisair.com/site/publish/content/default.asp?lang=en
International
- Tripoli > Tunis, Sfax, Amman (TBC)
Tunisair is the national airline of Tunisia, based in Tunis-Carthage International Airport. It was founded in 1948 and started operations in 1949. The airline operates scheduled international and domestic services to over 100 destinations in Europe, Africa, and the Middle East, using a fleet of Airbus and Boeing aircraft.
Tunisair is a member of the Arab Air Carriers Organization and the International Air Transport Association (IATA). It is also a partner of the global airline alliance, SkyTeam.
The airline is owned by the Tunisian government and is managed by a board of directors. Tunisair’s main mission is to provide safe, reliable, and affordable air transportation to the people of Tunisia and to promote the country’s tourism and trade.
In recent years, Tunisair has faced financial challenges due to increased competition and the effects of political instability in the region. However, the airline has taken steps to improve its efficiency and profitability, including fleet renewal and cost-cutting measures.
Overall, Tunisair is an important national carrier in the North African region, providing essential air links between Tunisia and other countries. It has a long history of serving travellers to and from Tunisia, and remains committed to delivering high-quality service to its passengers.
- TUNISAIR Express – Website: https://www.tunisairexpress.net/en/
International
- Tripoli > Djerba, Sfax,
Tunisair Express is a subsidiary of Tunisair, the national airline of Tunisia. Tunisair Express was founded in 1991 as Tuninter, but was later acquired by Tunisair in 2008 and rebranded as Tunisair Express.
Tunisair Express operates domestic and international flights to destinations in North Africa and Europe. The airline’s main base is at Tunis-Carthage International Airport and it operates a fleet of ATR 72-500 and ATR 72-600 aircraft.
Tunisair Express operates as a regional carrier, providing connections between Tunisia and other nearby countries such as Algeria, Libya, Italy, and France. The airline’s services are primarily aimed at business travellers and tourists who are looking for efficient and convenient regional connections.
The airline is managed by a board of directors, which is responsible for making strategic decisions and overseeing the airline’s day-to-day operations. Tunisair Express also employs a team of experienced pilots, cabin crew, and ground staff to ensure that its operations run smoothly and safely.
- PETRO AIR – Website: https://www.petroair.ly
Petro Air is a privately owned Libyan airline that specializes in providing air transportation services to the oil and gas industry. The company was established in 2005 and is headquartered in Tripoli, Libya.
Petro Air’s main focus is on supporting the exploration, development, and production of oil and gas resources in Libya. The company operates a fleet of helicopters and fixed-wing aircraft to transport personnel, equipment, and supplies to remote locations across the country.
Petro Air’s helicopter fleet includes models such as the Sikorsky S-76, Euro copter EC135, and Bell 412. The company’s fixed-wing aircraft include the Embraer EMB-120 Brasilia and the Cessna Citation Jet.
In addition to its air transportation services, Petro Air also provides other aviation-related services such as aircraft maintenance, ground handling, and aviation logistics.
The company is managed by a board of directors and has a team of experienced aviation professionals to ensure the safe and efficient operation of its aircraft. Petro Air is committed to maintaining the highest standards of safety and quality in all aspects of its operations.
Overall, Petro Air plays an important role in supporting the oil and gas industry in Libya, providing essential air transportation services to facilitate exploration, development, and production activities.
VISA REQUIREMENTS/PROCESS FOR LIBYAN VISA AT LONDON CONSULATE
STEP ONE – OBTAIN A VISA REFERENCE NUMBER FROM A SPONSOR
- Obtain a letter of invite from your sponsor originator which should include a reference number, this number will be shared with the UK Libyan embassy or consulate. The sponsor will usually require a copy of your passport, the date and reason for your visit
- Ensure you tell your sponsor that you will be collecting the visa from the consulate section of the Embassy in London
- Sponsors can include trade organisations, the company or organisation you are meeting or commercial partners based in Libya. All must have with visa files.
Consular & Cultural Affairs Section, 61-62 Ennismore Gardens, Knightsbridge
Types of visa’s and Fee’s at Embassy
- Single entry business Visa – £200.00
- Single entry visit Visa – £200.00
- Joining spouse or family – £500.00
- Extension of re-entry and exit visa – £100.00
- Multiple entry Visa three months – £300.00
- Multiple entry Visa six months – £500.00
- Work Visa – £500.00
- Diplomatic Visa – £00.00
- Libyan citizen and spouse – £100.00
* Subject to change
Visa fees are usually (but not always) paid in 2 parts
- A fee to the Libyan sponsor (variable) for visa services in Libya
- A fee to the embassy (payment on application and as above)
NOTE: Passports showing previous travel to Israel are not accepted for travel to Libya
Diplomats and some oil and gas employees may be able to obtain special dispensation with regards the obtaining of visas
STEP TWO – FILL IN AND COLLATE THE INFORMATION THAT WILL BE REQUIRED AT THE LIBYAN EMBASSY
The requirements in the UK are as follows
you will need to complete and produce all of the following.
- A completed Visa Application Form, downloadable here visa application form
- A copy of the authorisation letter (the consulate should already have had this faxed to them from Libya)
- Take with you the required amount of approved passport photos, minimum x 2
- The visa fee which may vary. This is usually payable by BAC’s but sometimes required by cash
- It is recommended that you take a letter on headed paper from the sponsor company detailing your invitation to Libya and the purpose of your visit.
BE AWARE: The Consulate opening time could occasionally vary but in London it is currently
Monday to Thursday 10:00 till 14:00
If you require a fast track service (same day turnaround) there is usually an additional charge
NOTE: currently if you fly into Benghazi YOU MAY require an authorisation letter from the Military Investment Board/Authority which may have a cost of approx. $500
Payment details in London consulate
Visa fee paid in advance transfer to
-
- Libyan Embassy London
- account number 00101469
- sort code 23-47-12
Note: It is recommended that the fee is paid whilst you attend the Visa office
Time to issue Between 5 – 10 working days
Expediated visa £100.00
STEP THREE – ON ARRIVAL AT YOUR LIBYAN AIRPORT
Ideally you should be met by a representative of the sponsor company so that there are no issues at the passport control, this can be essential.
LIBYA’S AIRLINE SECTOR IS CONTINUALLY EVOLVING. THE INDUSTRY HAS SEEN SIGNIFICANT DISRUPTION BUT A RETURN TO STABILITY AND PRODUCTIVE ENGAGEMENT IN THE LAST 18 MONTHS TO 2 YEARS. WHILST THIS BRIEFING DOCUMENT HIGHLIGHTS THE MAJOR PLAYERS THERE ARE MANY MORE.
PLEASE CONTACT THE BRITISH LIBYAN BUSINESS ASSOCIATION IF YOU REQUIRE FURTHER INFORMATION OR ASSISTANCE TO HELP GUIDE YOU IN DEVELOPING OPPORTUNITIES AND COMMERCIAL ACTIVITIES IN LIBYA.
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