Benghazi International Airport: A Symbol of Libya’s Transformation and Progress
BENGHAZI, LIBYA | LONDON, UK – June 2, 2025
Libya is embarking on a new journey towards progress and development with the launch of one of Africa’s most ambitious infrastructure projects: Benghazi International Airport. The $1.3 billion project, set to be completed in 2026, is a major milestone in Libya’s Vision 2030, positioning the country as a key trade, logistics, and aviation hub connecting Africa, Europe, and the Middle East.
Under the guidance of General Saddam Haftar, whose visionary leadership is driving Libya’s infrastructural renaissance, the new airport goes beyond just a transportation project. It is a national symbol of resilience, progress, and opportunity.
A Catalyst for National Transformation
The airport is being led by the National Development Agency (NDA) in collaboration with Global Builders Company, a subsidiary of Terminal Group Holding. Spearheading this transformation is Mahmud Elforjani, Executive Director of the NDA, whose determination and drive have been instrumental in advancing major development programs aligned with Libya’s national agenda.
“We see the new Benghazi International Airport not just as a gateway to the world, but also as a gateway to Libya’s future,” stated Elforjani. “This project will not only facilitate trade, tourism, and economic development, but also showcase the immense potential of our people and our geography.”
Spanning 24 square kilometers, the airport has the capacity to handle up to 15 million passengers annually, with infrastructure designed to accommodate the world’s largest aircraft, the Airbus A380. The new terminal will cover an area of 125,000 square meters, along with a VIP terminal, cargo hub, and a 3.8-km runway – the longest in North Africa.
Vision 2030 in Action
The airport is one of over 150 strategic projects currently underway as part of Vision 2030 Libya, the country’s ambitious development plan focused on building a diversified, sustainable, and inclusive economy. The initiative is built on three core pillars: A Flourishing Society, A Balanced Economy, and A State for the People – with infrastructure playing a pivotal role.
The airport will seamlessly integrate with Benghazi’s expanding Juliana Free Zone and Port, currently undergoing modernization to support multimodal trade. This infrastructure is part of a larger logistics vision that includes trans-Saharan trade corridors, economic free zones, and improved transportation links to sub-Saharan Africa.
A Design Rooted in Identity, Built for the World
Designed by NRY Architects, the airport’s sweeping rooflines are inspired by Libya’s deserts and the flow of the Mediterranean. The architecture reflects a nation on the rise, combining cultural symbolism with world-class functionality.
Mr. The Honourable Richard John Evans, CEO of Octavius GB Ltd, shared his excitement about the project stating, “Our company, Octavius GB Ltd (ACE Modular Construction), was thrilled to sign an official MOU with the National Development Agency in London recently. This is a huge opportunity for our British Building Contractor Partners as Libya enters a transformative era, including the launch of Benghazi International Airport. Positioned as a strategic gateway connecting Africa, Europe, and the Middle East, this mega project symbolizes national renewal and economic ambition. We look forward to collaborating with Mr. Mahmud Elforjani and his team, backed by General Saddam Haftar’s forward-looking leadership!”
Global Opportunity, Local Empowerment
The project is expected to create over 2,500 jobs and involves international teams from 12 countries. However, its impact goes beyond just the global level. The project is also creating new employment, training, and service opportunities for Libyans, showcasing the NDA’s commitment to inclusive development.
Furthermore, Libya’s low aviation fuel costs provide airlines with a significant cost advantage, making Benghazi an attractive base for international carriers and logistics operators.
A Statement to the World
As Libya opens up to global partners, the Benghazi International Airport stands as a symbol of confidence and commitment. It is a testament to a country not only rebuilding from its past but also reimagining its future.
Distributed by https://pressat.co.uk/