From 12 January 2025, Italy and Libya will resume direct commercial flights after more than a decade. Italian carrier ITA Airways and Libyan airline Medsky will operate the routes.
The Italian Civil Aviation Authority (ENAC) noted the importance of this achievement in a recent statement. ENAC President Pierluigi Di Palma highlighted the collaborative efforts that led to this milestone, saying:
“The spirit of friendship that unites the two countries is strengthened by the direct connection, creating opportunities to forge cultural, economic, and commercial relations with benefits for both.”
This development follows extensive discussions involving ENAC, the Italian Embassy in Tripoli, and other stakeholders. Key milestones included a visit by ITA Airways’ Accountable Manager Francesco Presicce in October 2024 and a December meeting with Belkasem Haftar, President of Libya’s Fund for Reconstruction.
Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni’s October visit to the Business Forum in Tripoli also underscored Italy’s commitment to rebuilding ties with Libya.
Flight Details and Inaugural Events
ITA Airways will launch its Rome–Tripoli route with a ribbon-cutting ceremony at Rome Fiumicino Airport on 12 January, followed by a celebratory event hosted by Italian Ambassador Gianluca Alberini in Tripoli.
The resumption of air links will provide vital support for ongoing reconstruction efforts in Libya. Furthermore, it will foster greater connectivity for businesses and cultural exchanges between Italy and Libya.
EU Approval of ITA–Lufthansa Merger
The relaunch of ITA Airways comes shortly after the European Union approved Lufthansa’s acquisition of a 41% stake in the Italian carrier. The partnership aims to revitalise ITA Airways, expanding its reach and bolstering its competitiveness in European and international markets.
The timing of this merger aligns with Italy’s renewed focus on strengthening its global aviation ties.
