TRIPOLI - Libya's National Transitional Council (NTC) forces have captured the airport of Sabha, known as one of the main bastions of fallen leader Muammar Gadhafi, Al- Jazeera TV reported Tuesday.

The fighters also managed to take control of others parts of the southern desert city, even as military offensives stalled to the north.

Meanwhile, the NTC fighters are regrouping for another push toward Sirte, the birthplace of Gadhafi.

On Monday night, battles raged around Sirte, as NTC fighters and Gadhafi forces traded gunfire and rockets.

Sirte, about 400 km southeast of the capital, Tripoli, is one of the last remaining strongholds of Gadhafi.

Gadhafi is still on the run, though rebels have controlled most of the North African country and are working on setting up a new government to replace the former regime.

However, Gadhafi continues to send statements and voice messages through the Syria-based al-Rai channel.