Libya Launches Strategic Plan to Develop Aviation Sector: New Airports Drive Tourism Revival

Published on December 8, 2025

The authorities of Libya, Africa have jointly decided to implement a daring new plan for their civil aviation sector which could be a decisive factor for the revival of tourism and travel in the country. The meeting of the founding committee of the Libyan Aviation Holding Company (LAHC), chaired by the country’s Minister of Transport and the Prime Minister’s financial advisor Mohammed Al-Shahoubi, not only reviewed the major steps that had been taken already but also mapped out a plan for significant financial investments throughout the country.

At the heart of the plan is a vision to capitalise on Libya’s strategic position at the crossroads of Europe, North Africa, and the Middle East, turning the nation’s airports into gateways for travel, trade, and tourism. The committee underlined that this effort aims not only to support the national economy and diversify sources of revenue, but to raise the standard of air-travel services and bring Libya on par with international norms.

What the plan involves

• Establishing the Aviation Holding Company and strengthening governance: The newly formed LAHC will work alongside specialised experts and international consulting firms to ensure adherence to global standards of governance, sustainability, and performance. Attention was drawn to ongoing cooperation with the US aerospace giant Boeing, a partnership that is expected to substantially boost the technical and operational capacity of Libya’s aviation system.
• Launching new airports & upgrading existing infrastructure: The plan coincides with government efforts to build new airports and modernise air-transport infrastructure. Among the most striking recent developments is the imminent opening of Al-Zawiya Commercial International Airport in western Libya, a strategic gateway designed to enhance connectivity, stimulate commerce, and attract investment.
• Reviving regional airports & reconnecting remote areas: In line with the aviation strategy, regional hubs are also receiving attention. For instance, Zintan Airport is slated to resume scheduled flights in late 2025, reconnecting mountainous western zones with centres such as Benghazi, an important step toward integrating the country’s diverse regions.
• Modernising fleet and improving airline services: The aviation push is matched by investments from private carriers: for example, Buraq Air recently introduced modern aircraft such as the Embraer E190 and an expanded fleet of fuel-efficient Airbus A320neo jets, signalling growing confidence in Libya’s aviation and tourism potential.

Why this matters for travellers and Libya’s tourism

For travellers and adventurers, especially those drawn to Libya’s rich history, Mediterranean coastline, and desert landscapes, these developments signal a much-improved travel experience waiting on the horizon. Easier domestic connectivity via reopened regional airports, combined with the expansion of the national airline fleet and new international gateways, will make previously remote historic and cultural sites far more accessible.

Improved infrastructure will also raise the quality and safety standards of air travel, helping dispel long-standing concerns about accessibility and reliability. For foreign tourists, the airline investments paired with governance reforms under LAHC suggest that modern, comfortable, and internationally compliant travel in Libya is becoming a tangible reality.

Linking aviation growth to tourism: A long-term vision

Officials suggest that the new aviation strategy could transform Libya into a major travel destination. By harnessing its geographic location and reconnecting former transport-isolated regions, the government aims to diversify the economy, not just through oil or traditional exports, but by developing tourism, trade, and service industries linked to improved air connectivity.

Moreover, the expansion of airports both new and rehabilitated has the potential to distribute tourist and economic benefits more evenly across Libya, not just in major cities. This could open up lesser-known desert towns, historic coastal sites, and culturally rich inland areas to exploration giving travellers a richer, more varied experience.

What remains to be done and what travellers should watch

Although progress has been significant, several challenges remain. The success of the aviation plan depends on timely completion of infrastructure projects, smooth regulatory reforms by institutions such as the Libyan Civil Aviation Authority (LCAA), and the re-establishment of stable international airline services.

Additionally, for travellers interested in visiting Libya, it will be important to follow official announcements on visas, flight schedules, and safety advisories, especially as new airports and routes open. For now, the re-launch of regional airports like Zintan, the opening of Al-Zawiya airport, and the growing fleet of reliable airlines are promising signs.

Final thoughts

The revival of the aviation sector has given rise to a renewed feeling of hope for both Libyans and international travelers. The government’s vision of a nation reuniting with its people and inviting the world in is reflected in the establishment of the Libyan Aviation Holding Company, commitment to new airports, and improved airline services. If these plans materialize, Libya is likely to be seen as a place not only for necessity or transit but also for finding out, heritage, and travel opportunities.