ITA Airways Relaunches Direct Flights Between Rome and Tripoli After 10-Year Hiatus
After a 10-year interruption due to instability in Libya, ITA Airways has relaunched direct flights between Rome and Tripoli, marking a significant step in the restoration of relations between the two countries. Two weekly connections will now link Fiumicino Airport to Mitiga Airport, highlighting an improvement in the security situation since the 2020 ceasefire. This symbolic initiative aims to strengthen economic and cultural ties between Italy and Libya, strategic partners in the region.
The resumption of flights takes place in a context of bilateral rapprochement. In October, agreements were signed during Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni's visit to Libya, consolidating cooperation in several sectors. ITA Airways also plans to extend its services to Misrata and Benghazi. However, Libyan airlines remain excluded from European airspace due to security restrictions, although improvements have been recognized by Libyan Transport Minister Mohamed Chahoubi.
Beyond its symbolic impact, this initiative is expected to stimulate economic exchanges, tourism, and regional connectivity. According to Ivan Bassato, head of Rome's airports, this connection reinforces Rome's strategic role as a hub to Africa. With a 38% increase in traffic between Rome and Africa expected in 2024, this project opens a new era for relations between Libya and its international partners, reflecting a willingness to turn the page on a decade of conflict.
