After a decade-long hiatus, Turkish Airlines has resumed flights between Istanbul and Benghazi, marking a significant step in strengthening commercial and cultural ties between Türkiye and Libya.
Operating three flights per week, this newly relaunched route opens fresh opportunities for trade, collaboration, and mutual development.
Murtaza Karanfil, head of the Türkiye-Libya Business Council and chairman of the Istanbul-based Karanfil Group, emphasized Libya’s strategic importance as a gateway to Africa. Highlighting Türkiye’s pivotal role in global aviation, he described the aviation sector as more than transportation, calling it “a bridge that facilitates cultural exchange.”
The new route aims to bolster Türkiye’s position as a major player in global trade and aviation while offering a critical link to Africa, a continent poised to drive global economic growth in the coming century. Libya, in particular, is seen as a key partner for Türkiye, with opportunities spanning infrastructure, healthcare, and energy sectors.
The reinstatement of Istanbul-Benghazi flights is expected to benefit Turkish exporters by improving logistics infrastructure and enhancing the presence of Turkish businesses in Libya. This development also signals Türkiye’s readiness to contribute expertise in Libya’s post-conflict reconstruction and development projects.
According to Karanfil, discussions with Libya’s Reconstruction Fund and other state institutions during the inaugural flight underscore the commitment to supporting Libya’s recovery. Future plans include a business forum with Turkish contractors and business leaders to explore further collaboration with Libyan officials.
The renewed air connectivity symbolizes more than just flights; it represents a renewed partnership focused on shared growth. Türkiye aims to play a significant role in Libya’s reconstruction, sharing knowledge and resources to rebuild critical infrastructure and support economic development.
This move by Turkish Airlines highlights the growing importance of aviation in fostering international collaboration and growth, further solidifying Türkiye’s strategic position in the global market.
