British Airways to resume flights to Libyan capital in May

2012-01-23 18:02:41 GMT+7 (ICT)

LONDON (BNO NEWS) -- British Airways plans to continue flights to the Libyan capital of Tripoli later this year, the airline announced on Monday. Flights were suspended in February 2011 as a result of the country's civil war.

British Airways said it decided to resume flights between London Heathrow Airport and Tripoli International Airport following a 'thorough security review' in conjunction with the British and Libyan governments. The flights, three times a week, are set to resume on May 1st.

"We are delighted to be returning to Libya," said Keith Williams, CEO of British Airways. "Our flights to Tripoli have provided a vital economic link for many years, and it is good news for everyone that we can now restart operations."

British Airways flights to and from Tripoli were suspended in February 2011 as Libyan government forces launched a violent crackdown on anti-government protesters and rebels, leading to a UN-sanctioned no-fly zone which closed all civilian airports in the North African nation from March 2011 until October 2011.

The eight-month-long civil war, which claimed more than 25,000 lives, came to an end in late October when rebels captured Libyan leader Muammar Gaddafi as he tried to flee his hometown Sirte. Gaddafi, who led Libya for more than 30 years, was eventually shot dead although the exact circumstances surrounding the death remain unclear.

Libya's National Transitional Council (NTC), led by the former rebels, assumed control of the country after Gaddafi's regime was toppled. The council appointed Abdurrahim El-Keib as interim prime minister to lead Libya until nationwide elections have taken place.

-- © BNO News All rights reserved 2012-01-23

Nice to see some normality return to the country, but I think I'll hold off on my vacation plans for the time being.

You really dont think this is for holiday makers do you, BA are securing the route for when the expat O&G workers start hitting the country again, The US has its Iraq, the UK is after Libya...

No, I don't really think it is for holiday makers. I was being sarcastic. It is, however, good to see normality return.