Etihad Airways has temporarily suspended its three weekly passenger flights and two weekly cargo flights to Tripoli, Libya, effective immediately.
The announcement follows safety and operational challenges that the airline has observed in recent months at Tripoli airport.
“Regretfully, we have taken the decision to temporarily suspend our flights to Tripoli. As the safety and security of our guests, employees and assets remains our No. 1 priority, our assessment of the existing situation at Tripoli airport does not provide the level of assurance we require to ensure safe operation of our flights,” Richard Hill, Etihad Airways’ COO, said. “Once we are satisfied that the arrangements at Tripoli airport meet our requirements, we will resume services.”
Etihad Airways is notifying intending cargo customers and passengers of the temporary suspension of flights, and facilitating refunds.
The airline began flights to Tripoli on Jan. 17, 2012.