Libya: Mitiga Airport closed Oct. 16 following clashes

Event

On Monday, October 16, Diplomatic Police at Mitiga International Airport (MJI) in Tripoli reported that the airport had been closed due to clashes in the area on Sunday night. As of Monday morning, flights are being re-rerouted through Misrata International Airport (MRA). The situation will be reviewed shortly but a prolonged closure is possible.

Context

The RADA Special Deterrence Force (RDF) conducted raids on Sunday night south of MJI, leading to the arrest of least two people. Unconfirmed reporting states that two rocket-propelled grenades (RPGs) fired during the raids either caused damage to the airport or still need to be cleared.

Advice

Travelers are advised to confirm flight statuses prior to departure for the airport. On a general note, the security environment in Libya remains complex. Although travel is permissible in some areas, other areas should be considered strictly off limits. Professional security advice and support should be sought prior to travel.