Turkish Airlines has re-established its air link to Benghazi, Libya, after a decade-long absence. This marks a significant step for the region, which has seen air traffic disruption since the oubreak of civil war in 2014.
It is also a landmark for the Turkisj flag carrier, which boasts the most extensive African route network globally, connecting to 64 destinations across the continent.
Benghazi flights will now operate three times weekly on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Sundays, utilizing a Boeing 737-78D aircraft.
Historical Ties with Libya
Turkish Airlines CEO Bilal Ekşi expressed enthusiasm for this renewed service and spoke of the historical connection with Libya. “As Turkish Airlines, we remain committed to connecting continents, and Benghazi, Libya’s second-largest city, is a crucial part of this mission.”
“We share historical ties with Libya and are confident that the region’s growing investments will further stimulate tourism and trade across the continent. We will continue to adapt our network to meet evolving market demands and increasing passenger interest.”
To celebrate the relaunch, Turkish Airlines is offering special fares for travel between Istanbul and Benghazi.
Passengers who book by February 15, 2025, can travel until March 20, 2025, with attractive prices of USD 349 for the Istanbul-Benghazi route and USD 249 for the return journey. These promotional fares are based on the official Turkish Airlines website and may vary at sales offices and agencies.
A Sign of Recovery
This resumption of flights to Benghazi is a momentous occasion, given the significant disruptions to air travel in Libya since the outbreak of civil war in 2014. The conflict forced many international carriers to suspend their services to the country due to safety and security concerns.
The return of Turkish Airlines to Benghazi signifies a gradual return to normalcy for the Libyan aviation sector.
2024 witnessed a resurgence of international air travel to Libya, with other airlines also resuming operations. This includes ITA Airways, which has just restored direct flights between Rome and Tripoli, further enhancing connectivity between Libya and Europe.
The resumption of these air routes not only facilitates travel for business and leisure but also plays a crucial role in boosting the Libyan economy by facilitating trade and tourism.
As Libya continues on its path to recovery and stability, the increased air connectivity will undoubtedly contribute to its economic growth and development.
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