15 Aug 2019 | 06:24 PM UTC
Libya: Missile attack temporarily suspends flights at Tripoli’s Mitiga Airport (MJI) August 15 /update 1
Missile attack temporarily suspends flights at Tripoli’s Mitiga International Airport (MJI) August 15; flight operations resume in afternoon (local time), with similar attacks possible over the near term
Event
A missile attack killed one worker and temporarily suspended flight operations at Tripoli's Mitiga International Airport (MJI) early (local time) on Thursday, August 15. MJI diverted flights to Misrata, according to airport officials, before resuming flight operations around 14:30.
Similar attacks targeting MJI are possible over the near term and may result in flight delays and cancelations.
Context
Tripoli's Mitiga International Airport (MJI) has been targeted by air and mortar strikes multiple times in recent months; however, the strikes generally do not hit the main runway or any civilian facilities and normal flight operations have typically been restored within a few hours.
The Libyan National Army (LNA) launched an offensive on Tripoli on April 4 and prompted evacuations of foreigners from Tripoli en masse on April 7. LNA and Government of National Accord (GNA) airstrikes have been sporadically reported since April 8. The bulk of recent fighting has been concentrated in the southern suburbs of the capital.
Advice
Individuals in Tripoli and traveling via MJI are advised to monitor the situation, confirm flight reservations, avoid areas affected by fighting, maintain safe and current evacuation plans, and adhere to instructions issued by local authorities and their home governments.
The security environment in Libya remains complex. Professional security advice and support should be sought prior to travel.
