Benghazi International Airport, one of Africa’s most ambitious infrastructure projects, is set to transform Libya under its Vision 2030 plan. Spearheaded by General Saddam Haftar, the airport is a symbol of the country’s resilience, progress, and opportunity.
The project, with an estimated cost of $1.3 billion, is a joint venture between the National Development Agency (NDA) and Global Builders Company, a subsidiary of Terminal Group Holding. Mahmud Elforjani, Executive Director of the NDA, believes that the airport is not only a gateway to the world but also to Libya’s future. He states, “This project will catalyse trade, tourism, and economic development, while showcasing the immense potential of our people and our geography.”
The airport, covering an area of 24 square kilometers, will have the capacity to handle 15 million passengers annually. It will also have infrastructure capable of accommodating the world’s largest aircraft, the Airbus A380. The new terminal, spanning 125,000 square meters, will also include a VIP terminal, cargo hub, and a 3.8-km runway, the longest in North Africa.
The airport is part of Vision 2030 Libya, the country’s ambitious development plan focused on building a diversified, sustainable, and inclusive economy. The initiative is structured around three core pillars: A Flourishing Society, A Balanced Economy, and A State for the People – with infrastructure playing a pivotal role. The new airport will integrate with Benghazi’s expanding Juliana Free Zone and Port, which is currently under modernization to support multimodal trade.
The airport’s design, conceptualized by NRY Architects, is rooted in Libya’s identity, with sweeping rooflines that evoke the form of the country’s deserts and the flow of the Mediterranean. The architecture reflects a nation rising, combining cultural symbolism with world-class function.
The project is expected to generate over 2,500 jobs, with international teams from 12 countries involved in its construction. This project is a testament to the NDA’s commitment to inclusive development, as it is creating new employment, training, and service opportunities for Libyans. The airport’s low aviation fuel costs also offer airlines a significant cost advantage, making Benghazi a compelling base for international carriers and logistics operators.
The Honourable Richard John Evans, CEO of Octavius GB Ltd, a British Building Contractor Partner, stated, “Our company Octavius GB Ltd (ACE Modular Construction) were delighted to sign an official MOU recently in London with the National Development Agency. There is huge opportunity for our British Building Contractor Partners now that Libya is entering a transformative era including the launch of Benghazi International Airport.”
As Libya opens up to global partners, the airport stands as a symbol of confidence and commitment to the world. It is a testament to a country not only rebuilding from the past but also reimagining its future.
Derick is an experienced reporter having held multiple senior roles for large publishers across Europe. Specialist subjects include small business and financial emerging markets.