A warplane has carried out airstrikes on an airport in western Libyan, which is allied with the internationally recognised government.

The attacks have been allegedly carried out by the rival government controlling Tripoli, according to officials.

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Another Istanbul-bound Libyan commercial plane was forced to return to Tripoli on Tuesday after Egypt banned the use of its airspace, informed Tripoli International Airport and the Libyan airline.

"A warplane conducted an airstrike on the airport of Zintan while passengers were about to depart."

Egypt had also launched airstrikes on suspected targets of Islamic State in Libya, following the release of a video showing the beheading of Egyptian Coptic Christians.

Libya is currently undergoing political turmoil with prime minister Abdullah al-Thinni’s recognised government and his allies engaged in a conflict with a rival faction that overtook the capital and established a self-declared government.

The United Nations is currently negotiating a deal between the two factions to prevent the country from engaging in a wider civil war.

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While no casualties were reported in the attack on the airport of Zintan in the mountains near the Tunisian border, the runway experienced limited damage.

Zintan Airport said in a statement: "A warplane conducted an air strike on the airport of Zintan while passengers were about to depart. Two flights were cancelled for security."

Morocco had also previously suspended flights to Libya and closed its airspace for Libyan aircraft, citing security concerns a day after Egypt bombed the country.

Morocco’s announcement had coincided with UAE-based aircraft lessor Aerovista’s decision to withdraw its fleet from being operated by Air Libya.