A French civil aviation team has completed a visit to Libya, auditing and evaluating the country's civil aviation security. The team praised Libya's compliance with international aviation security standards set by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO). The audit was conducted from November 3, 2026, and the team's findings were presented to Libyan Minister of Transport, Mohamed Salem Al-Shehubi.

The French team leader commended the overall performance of security devices and modern equipment used in passenger procedures at Mitiga International Airport. However, the team also identified areas that require attention to facilitate passenger movement while ensuring security and compliance with international standards. The Libyan Minister of Transport emphasized the importance of the audit results, which will inform European Union countries about Libya's compliance with international civil aviation standards.

The audit is a significant development for Libya's aviation sector, which has faced challenges in recent years. In October 2026, the ICAO announced the cancellation of restrictions and warnings related to the use of Libyan airspace. This decision reflects the efforts made to develop the sector and enhance safety and security standards. The Libyan government is working to revive the country's aviation industry and encourage international airlines to resume flights to Libyan airports.

The French team's visit and the ICAO's decision to cancel restrictions on Libyan airspace are expected to boost Libya's aviation sector. The Libyan Ministry of Transport plans to launch an international promotional program to attract international airlines and encourage them to resume direct flights to Libya. The program aims to showcase the improvements made in Libya's aviation sector and highlight the country's potential as a hub for air travel.

According to the Libyan Ministry of Transport, there has been a significant increase in requests for permits to cross Libyan airspace. As of November 2026, the number of monthly requests reached 61,968, compared to an average of 2,000 per month in the previous season. This increase reflects the growing confidence of international airlines in Libya's aviation sector.

The Libyan government is working to strengthen cooperation with European countries, including France. The resumption of flights by French airlines to Libyan airports is seen as a key step in reviving economic activities and promoting stability between the two countries. The Libyan Minister of Transport emphasized the importance of cooperation in the aviation sector, which is critical for the country's economic development.

The audit team's visit and the positive findings are expected to have a significant impact on Libya's aviation sector. The country's efforts to comply with international standards and enhance safety and security measures are crucial for the sector's growth and development. The Libyan government is committed to continuing its efforts to improve the aviation sector and provide a safe and secure environment for passengers.

Key points

  • The French audit team praised Libya's compliance with international aviation security standards set by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO).
  • The Libyan Ministry of Transport plans to launch an international promotional program to attract international airlines and encourage them to resume direct flights to Libya.
  • There has been a significant increase in requests for permits to cross Libyan airspace, reaching 61,968 monthly requests as of November 2026.

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SaharaWire Newsroom
SaharaWire

Reporting for SaharaWire from the Nairobi bureau.