Al-Buraq Air, Libya’s largest private airline, is preparing to execute the biggest purchase order for passenger aircraft since 2011. This strategic move aims to substantially enhance the carrier’s regional footprint and expand its international network.
The company has signed a preliminary agreement with Airbus for the acquisition of ten aircraft from the A320neo family, a deal expected to more than double the size of the airline’s fleet in the coming years. This major investment is driven by an improved security climate and the relative return of stability after years of political division and conflict.
In a statement to Bloomberg, the company’s General Manager, Ezzidine Al-Halouj, said that the new aircraft would facilitate the opening of direct routes between Libya and several destinations across Africa and Asia, though he did not disclose the specific routes currently under planning.
Regarding the choice of Airbus, Al-Halouj explained that the decision was based on the “strong logistical support” offered by the European manufacturer, including its widespread maintenance, spare parts, and training centres across the African continent. The airline anticipates receiving the new jets between 2031 and 2032.
Al-Buraq Air was founded in 2002, initially serving the oil sector before subsequently developing its operations. It currently runs a small fleet consisting of Boeing, Airbus, and Embraer aircraft, operating domestic and international flights to countries like Turkey, Tunisia, and Egypt.
Al-Buraq’s expansion is indicative of a broader growth trend among Libya’s private airlines; Berniq Airways, for example, purchased six Airbus A320S last year to bolster its regional and international network. This dynamism contrasts sharply with the stagnation affecting national flag carriers such as Libyan Airlines and Afriqiyah Airways, which have faced operational difficulties and obstacles in modernising their fleets in recent years.
Notably, all Libyan airlines remain banned from flying into European Union airspace due to what regulators have cited as “insufficient safety oversight” by the national aviation authorities.
