(VOVworld) – The European Union announced Thursday that Libyan airlines are no longer permitted to operate in European airspace due to safety concerns related to the on-going conflict between Libya’s warring factions.

The European Union announced Thursday a ban on Libyan airliners from operating in E.U. airspace, citing security concerns. (Photo: CC)

“Our priority in aviation is passenger safety,” said EU Commissioner for Transport Violeta Bulc. She explained that recent events in Libya have made the Libyan Civil Aviation Authority “no longer able to fulfill international obligations regarding the safety of the Libyan Aviation sector.” The decision to ban Libya’s airlines was based on recommendations from the EU Air Safety Committee.