Libya: Flights halted at Tripoli's Mitiga Airport (MJI) September 1 /update 5

Event

Flight operations have been halted at Tripoli's Mitiga International Airport (MJI) as of Sunday, September 1, after the facility was struck by artillery fire. According to the United Nations Support Mission in Libya (UNSMIL), two people were wounded after a projectile hit a runway, resulting in damage to a plane carrying civilians. Three other projectiles landed in the airport's parking lot.

Further airstrikes are possible in the near term in Tripoli, including at MJI.

Context

The airport 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.