MITIGA AIRPORT ASSISTANCE

History Of Mitiga International Airport

The airport was originally built in 1923 by the Italian Air Force as Mellaha Air Base (الملاّحة). A motor racing circuit was subsequently built around the airport and Mellaha Lake began hosting the popular Tripoli Grand Prix in 1933.

Mellaha was used by the German Luftwaffe during the North African Campaign, with the Germans using it for short range recon units, as well as coastal and naval recon units. Special weather recon units also existed at Mehalla. The main Luftwaffe unit stationed at the base was the 2nd Staffel of the Aufklärungsgruppe (H) 14 or 2.(H)/14.

The squadron was equipped with twelve single-engined Henschel Hs 126, an aircraft with 2-man crews, which could cover approx 710 km, with a maximum speed of 360 km/h, as well as three Fieseler Fi 156 Storch liaison aircraft, and a Junkers Ju 52 for transport of men and materiel.

The airbase was captured by the British 8th Army in January 1943. The US Army Air Force began using Mellaha as a base in January 1943. It was used by the 376th Bombardment Group (Heavy) of the 12th Air Force for B-24 bomb missions into Italy and southern parts of Germany. In addition, Mellaha Field was used by Air Transport Command. It functioned as a stopover en route to Benina Airport near Benghazi or to Tunis Airport, Tunisia on the North African Cairo-Dakar transport route for cargo, transiting aircraft and personnel.

On 15 April 1945 Mellaha AAF was taken over by USAAF's Air Training Command. It was renamed Wheelus Army Air Field (AAF) on 17 May 1945 in honor of USAAF Lieutenant Richard Wheelus who had died earlier that year in a plane crash in Iran. During the USAFs tenure the base was extended, demolishing the derelict motor racing buildings. A 1954 agreement with Libya extended use of the base until 1971, but changing needs led the United States to withdraw completely by 1970, handing the facility over to the new Libyan government that had taken power a year earlier in the 1969 Libyan coup d'état.

Why should you use JODOGO Airport Assistance?

• Avoid long lines and save time: JODOGO's Meet and Greet services help you bypass long queues at the airport, saving you valuable time and ensuring a seamless travel experience.
• Have a stress-free travel experience: JODOGO’s experienced and professional staff will handle every detail of your airport experience, allowing you to relax and enjoy your journey.
• Get personalized attention: JODOGO’s staff provides personalized attention and assistance, ensuring all your needs are met with care and efficiency.
• Enjoy a variety of services: JODOGO offers a variety of services to meet your needs, including Meet and Greet, porter assistance, fast-track check-in and security, and lounge access.
• Benefit from competitive rates: JODOGO offers competitive rates for its services, making it an affordable option for travelers. Enjoy 24/7 support—JODOGO is always available to assist you with your travel needs.
• Experience a smooth and efficient airport experience: JODOGO's staff is trained to deliver a smooth and efficient airport experience for every traveler.
• Feel confident and secure: JODOGO's knowledgeable and experienced staff ensures you are always in good hands.
• Relax and enjoy your trip: With JODOGO's assistance, you can relax and enjoy your journey, knowing your airport experience is fully taken care of.