Libya: All flights from Tripoli shifted to Misrata Airport (MRA) due to increased shelling March 4 /update 3

Event

Tripoli's Mitiga International Airport (MJI) announced on Wednesday, March 4, that it will shift all flights to Misrata Airport (MRA) due to increased shelling. Local sources reported that approximately nine rounds of indirect fire (IDF) impacted at the airport at approximately 00:01 (local time) on Wednesday. Currently, air operations have been suspended with only Buraq Air operating from the location.

Flight disruptions (i.e. delays and cancelations) are to be expected in the near term and similar attacks remain possible in the coming days.

Context

The Libyan National Army (LNA) launched an offensive on Tripoli on April 4, 2019, and prompted evacuations of foreigners from Tripoli on April 7, 2019. The bulk of recent fighting has been concentrated in the southern suburbs of the capital.

Advice

Individuals planning to fly via MJI are advised to monitor the situation, prepare for flight disruptions, and contact their airline for more information.

The security environment in Libya remains complex. Although travel is possible in some areas (with appropriate security protocols in place), other areas should be considered strictly off-limits. Professional security advice and support should be sought prior to travel.