The European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) has extended its prohibition on flights operating through Libyan airspace, citing ongoing safety concerns. The restrictions, which have been in place for years, will now continue until at least April 2025.
According to northafricapost.com, this decision is based on “information available to EU members and institutions” and reflects EASA’s assessment that Libya’s airspace continues to pose significant safety risks due to the country’s volatile security environment, the presence of terrorist groups, and ongoing military operations.
According to EASA, both deliberate and accidental threats to civil aviation exist at all altitudes, raising concerns that conditions could deteriorate further, potentially affecting the safety and reliability of air services in the region. The agency highlighted that these risks stem from a combination of security threats, including hostile actions from militant groups and instability due to armed conflict.
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EASA has advised all operators to avoid Libyan airspace at all altitudes and flight levels as a precautionary measure. However, it has made specific provisions for limited operations to Libyan airports under strict conditions. Such operations are only allowed if they approach Libyan airports from the sea and maintain full coordination with local authorities and air traffic control.
This guidance reflects EASA’s commitment to balancing safety with the operational needs of airlines, while reinforcing the importance of coordination in areas of heightened risk.
This ban is part of the EU’s ongoing efforts to mitigate risks for civilian flights over conflict zones. Libya’s airspace has remained restricted since the outbreak of civil unrest and violence in 2011, with periodic reviews conducted by European aviation authorities to assess safety conditions.
