The flight carrying the Super Eagles that was scheduled to land at Benghazi, Libya, was unexpectedly diverted to Al Abraq Airport, a less-equipped domestic airstrip 300 km east of its original destination. According to the pilot, the diversion raised serious safety concerns, as the aircraft was not prepared for such a last-minute change.
“We got approval from the Libyan aviation authority to land in Benghazi,” the pilot stated. “But unfortunately, they asked us to divert to Al Abraq, which is 150 miles, about 300 km farther. It wasn’t even the alternative airport. In aviation, we plan our fuel based on the flight plan, and diversions like this can breach safety.”
The pilot explained that despite numerous warnings regarding fuel shortages, they were repeatedly told the decision came from the “highest authority” and that landing in Benghazi was no longer an option. “I asked them several times, at least eight times, and I warned them that I would be in trouble for fuel. They said it’s from the highest authority; you cannot land in Benghazi. You have to divert at once to Al Abraq.”
The flight eventually landed safely, but the experience highlighted the dangers of diverting to airports without adequate infrastructure, particularly during nighttime operations. The pilot revealed that Al Abraq is poorly equipped for such landings. “The airport is like a domestic airport, it was not well equipped. We had to use visuals to land. It was our first and last chance.”
Despite the challenges, the pilot managed to land the aircraft without incident, crediting his familiarity with the region after having worked there for two years. “Thank God I worked there for two years with a Tunisian company, so I know the area very well. If you have flown there before, you would understand that it’s not an easy thing to land by night in the bush without air navigation.”
The pilot also assured that all documentation regarding the flight plan and approvals is available, emphasizing that the incident is well-documented. “Everything is on the radio. In aviation, we cannot hide anything. All the evidence is here. Everything is documented in aviation.”
The Libyan aviation authority is expected to provide further clarification on the circumstances leading to the diversion, as questions remain about the last-minute change of landing arrangements.
