Story ID: GPlibyanwings01142015
Libyan Wings Prepares To Launch with A319s
By: Gregory Polek
Caption: First two airplanes arrive in Malta as airline awaits regulatory clearance
Word Count: 311
New Tripoli-based airline Libyan Wings has taken possession of its first two Airbus A319s at Malta’s Luqa International Airport as investors prepare to announce an official launch of services “soon.” Executives expect the airplanes to remain in Malta until they obtain final clearances and approvals to fly out of Tripoli’s Mitiga International Airport.

Privately funded by Libyan investors, the airline plans to operate as a full-service carrier, flying the pair of Airbuses configured for 12 business class passengers and 108 economy seats. It intends initially to serve “a number” of destinations in the Middle East and North African region (MENA); future ambitions include service into Europe and markets on the Arabian Gulf once it inducts additional aircraft into its fleet.

“We have invested in modern aircraft that further demonstrates a commitment to innovation and technology while endeavoring to exceed customer expectations in terms of comfort and safety,” said Libyan Wings chairman Wesam Al Masri. “As we scale, this will be supported on the ground by investments and infrastructure and services at Mitiga in order to enhance all stages of the customers’ travel experience.”

A newly signed agreement with Lufthansa Technik calls for the German MRO giant to provide engineering and planning services, including preparation of a comprehensive maintenance program, compliance assessment and airworthiness directives and service bulletins.

Libyan Wings maintains a wet lease deal with Dubai Aerospace Enterprise (DAE) to operate the pair of seven-year-old A319s. During the 2013 Dubai Air Show, Libyan Wings signed a memorandum of understanding covering three A350-900s and four A320neos and announced plans to launch passenger charter and freight services in early 2014. However, due to political instability in Libya and that country’s stalled banking system, it had to delay its plans until it secured Islamic financing from local and international institutions.