For decades since its establishment in 1951, Libya has suffered from a lack of infrastructure in the aviation sector. The country lacked both international and even domestic airports capable of meeting the demands of air traffic. This was despite Libya’s strategic location at the crossroads of Africa, Europe, and Asia—positioning it as a critical hub for trade and mobility. Over the years, the country endured harsh conflicts that devastated its infrastructure, including its already deteriorating airports.

In a groundbreaking move at the end of 2023, Libya launched one of its largest aviation infrastructure development projects in history. The National Development Authority, in partnership with Global Emirates, a leading company in the construction of international airports, signed an agreement to establish Benghazi International Airport. This project represents a regional first of its kind and marks a pivotal turning point—one that strengthens Libya’s role as a global connector and supports the foundation of a resilient economy built on local expertise.

As one of the national drivers of urban revival in Libya, Khalifa Holding Group, through its engineering arm Eber Alalam for General Contracting, undertook a key role in making this ambitious vision a reality. Leveraging its vast experience and capabilities, and through strategic partnerships with specialized firms, the group launched construction work on a site located in Tika, west of Benghazi, covering more than 128,000 square meters.

With a projected annual capacity of 15 million passengers and the ability to handle 15 aircraft simultaneously, the airport is being constructed to meet the highest international standards for safety and security. Progress is well underway, with over 50% of the concrete works for the main passenger terminal completed. Simultaneously, work is advancing on the access bridge to the terminal, runways, taxiways, and aircraft aprons. In parallel, Express Company for Roads and Bridges, a subsidiary of Khalifa Holding Group, is developing the main and internal road networks for the airport.

Construction has also begun on key operational and administrative buildings, including those for the airport authority, civil aviation, customs, and airport police, along with a training facility for airport staff. Additional facilities include the main headquarters for executive leadership, a cargo terminal, duty-free storage, equipment maintenance workshops, and waste and logistics handling zones.

After nearly 18 months of continuous work, with over 320 machines deployed and a skilled workforce exceeding 1,400 professionals, the vision of Benghazi International Airport is becoming a tangible reality. Once completed, the airport will stand as a major artery for Libya’s aviation sector revival—a symbol of modernity and progress for a country that has long served as a gateway between nations.