Benghazi Aviation Zone Administration, part of the Libyan Aviation Authority, announced last Friday (20 February) the first-ever installation of the Instrument Approach Procedure (ILS RWY 15R) at Benina International Airport.
This achievement, it reported, resulted from the collaboration between the Benghazi Air Navigation Department and the Technical Affairs Department, in coordination with the Spain’s Sky Navigation Systems, as part of ongoing efforts to enhance air navigation services and operational safety.
Continuity during low-visibility and adverse weather conditions
It explained that this procedure marks a qualitative leap in airport operations, enabling Benina International Airport to maintain continuity during low-visibility and adverse weather conditions. The design aligns with international standards observed at major regional airports, representing a key step toward harmonizing Libyan air navigation with global best practices.
Part of a wider comprehensive programme
The Benghazi Aviation Zone Administration said this project is part of a comprehensive programme to install and modernize navigational aids at the following airports:
• Benina, Tobruk, Kufra, Sabha, Gulf of Sirte, Al-Abraq, Martuba, and Ghat.
These initiatives aim to improve air navigation efficiency, elevate safety levels, and enhance air connectivity across Libya. The plan also encompasses infrastructure upgrades, including the development of runways, air traffic control towers, radar surveillance, communication systems, and national personnel training programs to support future airspace management.
The Authority further revealed that he construction of the new Air Traffic Control (ATC) Tower at Benina Airport is currently being implemented by the Libya Development and Reconstruction Fund. The tower is being built to international standard specifications regarding height and advanced technical equipment. Its upcoming completion will significantly bolster air traffic services and operational safety, it added.
Flight calibration for all newly installed navigational aids across various airports will continue sequentially to ensure operational precision and compliance with ICAO and EASA international standards, ensuring the readiness of Libyan airports to efficiently handle domestic and international air traffic, the Authority explained.
Flight calibration
Flight calibration is the critical process of inspecting, testing, and adjusting aviation navigational aids (NAVAIDs), radar systems, and airport lighting using specially equipped aircraft to ensure they meet international safety and accuracy standards. It involves verifying that instruments like the Instrument Landing System (ILS) and VOR provide precise guidance, ensuring pilots can safely navigate and land.
