Etihad Airways Opens Link to Tripoli

Etihad Airways, the national airline of the United Arab Emirates (UAE), has inaugurated flights between Abu Dhabi and the Libyan capital Tripoli, the first new destination to be added to its network this year. The airline’s first service departed the UAE on the morning of January 17, 2012 and the route will be served on a three times weekly basis.

The new flight is the first time ever that the two Arabian capitals have been commercially linked by air and it expands Etihad’s network in Africa to a fifth destination. “We are delighted to launch this service to Tripoli. Libya is a beautiful country that over the coming months and years will have much to offer both business and leisure travellers,” said James Hogan, Chief Executive Officer, Etihad Airways.

The new service will further strengthen links between Libya and the UAE as the Gulf nation was among the first to recognise the new government of the country and provide political, military and humanitarian support. Under its new regime, Libya is expected to develop as a key trading partner for foreign states and Tripoli in particular offers tremendous potential for growth as a business and leisure destination.

“The new Libya is taking its rightful place among the prosperous nations of northern Africa and the Mediterranean. I have noted with great satisfaction that UAE companies are increasingly turning their attention to Libya for opportunities to cooperate, invest and do business. This is a clear sign of the positive future our business community sees for this country,” explained His Excellency Dr Anwar Gargash, UAE Minister of State for Foreign Affairs.