Libyan Wings, a new Tripoli-based airline, said in a statement it is a step closer to its launch plans with the arrival in Malta of the second of its two Airbus A319 aircraft following the arrival of the first aircraft last week.
The aircraft are expected to remain at Malta International Airport while the final clearances and approvals are obtained to commence operations out of Tripoli's Mitiga International Airport.
The privately-funded airline,by Libyan investors,will function as a full-service carrier,with the two aircraft configured with both business and economy class seating.
Libyan Wings initially intends to serve a number of strategic destinations in the Middle East and North African region,with future expansion planned into Europe, as well as other markets in the Arabian Gulf when additional aircraft are inducted into the fleet.
The A319 is a large, narrow-body, single-aisle aircraft and will deliver the highest level of passenger comfort and service on short and medium-length flights within Libyan Wings' network. Even on short trips, all passengers are treated to a full range of amenities and seating, designed to ensure an enjoyable flight.
The resplendent grey and blue corporate livery of the exterior has been carried into the cabin design providing a light and airy feel for the 12 passengers in business class and 108 in economy.
"We are both delighted and excited at having received the first two aircraft as we embark on the next phase of our launch plans," said Edgardo Badiali, Libyan Wings' Chief Executive Officer"We are confident of setting a new benchmark for quality of service and customer satisfaction to and from Libya when we commence operations."
Libyan Wings' Chairman, Wesam Al Masri adds: "We have invested in modern aircraft that further demonstrates a commitment to innovation and technology while endeavouring to exceed customer expectations in terms of comfort and safety.As we scale, this will be supported on the ground by investments in infrastructure and services at Mitiga in order to enhance all stages of the customer's travel experience.
"Libyan Wings is now looking forward to leading a new era in Libya's aviation sector and providing the stimulus for economic growth through the provision of high quality, efficient, safe and affordable air travel for the people of Libya."
The airline is expected to announce its official launch date soon and customers will be able to book flights on-line at www.libyanwings.ly and through their own sales' offices and appointed travel agents.
The two aircraft are wet-leased from Dubai Aerospace Enterprise (DAE) although they have Libya registrations.
Just over a year ago, Libyan Wing was reported to have signed a Memorandum of Understanding at the Dubai Air Show with Airbus for seven aircraft - four A320neo jets and three A500-900s worth a total of $1.3 billion. At the time it was said that the carrier was to launch operations this year, initially with internal and regional flights serviced by two dry-leased A320 aircraft.
Despite the announcement, the airline's hopes of a launch soon look slim, the Libya Herald said. The government in Beida this week announced a ban on flights out of Mitiga and Misrata. That will put plans to fly to destinations in the Middle East and North Africa on hold. All Arab states, including Qatar, recognise the Beida government and would be highly unlikely to accept flights from the two airports in the circumstances or allow such fights to travel through their airspace.
Despite persistent reports that Libyan Wings is owned by Abdul-Hakim Belhaj, this has never been confirmed.