Etihad Airways, in a press statement announced it has temporarily suspended its three weekly passenger flights and two weekly cargo flights to the Libyan capital, Tripoli, effective immediately.

The announcement follows safety and operational challenges which the airline has observed in recent months at Tripoli airport.

Captain Richard Hill, Etihad Airways’ chief operations officer, said:  “Regretfully, we have taken the decision to temporarily suspend our flights to Tripoli.

“As the safety and security of our guests, employees and assets remains our number one priority, our assessment of the existing situation at Tripoli airport does not provide the level of assurance we require to ensure safe operation of our flights.

“Once we are satisfied that the arrangements at Tripoli airport meet our requirements, we will resume services.”

Etihad Airways is currently notifying intending passengers and cargo customers of the temporary suspension of flights, and facilitating refunds.

The airline commenced flights to Tripoli on January 17, 2012.