Somalia is set to have a national carrier once again. According to statements from Ahmed Ma’allin, Director General of the Somali Civil Aviation Authority (SCAA), the airline is in its final preparation stages ahead of returning to the skies, an event projected for the middle of next month.
Somali Airlines ceased operations in 1991 following the collapse of the country’s central government and the subsequent civil war. Its relaunch marks the flag carrier’s return after 35 years.
Recent Milestones and Restructuring Timeline
The current announcement follows a series of prior plans by the Somali government to restore the flag carrier, whose earlier deadlines went unfulfilled:
- July 2025: The government announced an agreement to acquire two Airbus A320 aircraft, positioning them as the baseline for rebuilding the Somali Airlines fleet. Authorities noted at the time that the airline would launch operations within a few months.
- October 2025: A target was set to resume flights before the end of that year, a goal that ultimately failed to materialize.
- September 2026: Established as the active target for the return to commercial operations.
Operational Requirements and Fleet Outlook
The service resumption encompasses essential regulatory approvals and technical infrastructure needed to support scheduled flights:
- Regulatory and Safety Approvals: Full compliance with aviation regulations and the onboarding of qualified personnel for operational management.
- Flight and Ground Support Systems: Implementation of aircraft maintenance protocols, insurance coverage, flight planning, and airport ground handling services.
- Fleet Expansion: The two Airbus A320s agreed upon in 2025 form the initial phase of the fleet. The government plan foresees acquiring additional aircraft as the airline expands its route network.
Background and Industry Impact
Founded in 1964, Somali Airlines historically connected Somalia to various regional and international destinations until operations were suspended in 1991.
Re-establishing the national carrier is part of broader efforts by Somali civil aviation authorities to rebuild the sector’s infrastructure and regulatory framework following decades of instability. An active state-owned operator aims to boost air connectivity for both the local population and the Somali diaspora, while driving trade and job creation across the aviation industry and adjacent sectors.
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