Turkish Airlines has resumed direct flights to Benghazi, Libya, after a 10-year hiatus, marking a significant milestone in the restoration of air travel between the two countries.
The eastern-based Libyan government announced the resumption of flights on Tuesday, highlighting the importance of this development in facilitating travel for both Libyan and Turkish citizens.
At a ceremony held at Benina International Airport in Benghazi, Libyan civil aviation official Hisham Bo-Shkewat emphasized the positive impact of this renewed air connectivity. 
Turkish Airlines CEO Bilal Eksi stated that flights will operate three times a week, further strengthening the air link between the two countries.
The resumption of Turkish Airlines flights to Benghazi follows the recent launch of direct commercial flights between Libya and Italy by ITA Airways. This marks a gradual return to normalcy in Libyan aviation after a prolonged period of disruption.
Most international carriers suspended operations in Libya following the outbreak of the civil war in 2011, which led to the division of the country into rival administrations.
The European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) currently maintains restrictions on flights within Libyan airspace due to ongoing security concerns. However, operations to and from certain coastal airports are permitted under specific conditions, including strict adherence to sea approaches and close coordination with local authorities.
The resumption of Turkish Airlines flights to Benghazi signifies a positive step towards improving air connectivity and fostering closer ties between Libya and Turkey.
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