Somalia Targets September Relaunch for Somali Airlines After Three Decades

Somalia has announced a renewed timeline to revive its national airline, Somali Airlines, aiming to resume operations by September this year. The airline has been dormant for over three decades following the collapse of Somalia’s central government in 1991.

Ahmed Moalin Hassan, director of the Somali Civil Aviation Authority (SCAA), confirmed that preparations are nearly complete and the first flights are expected to begin next month, although specific routes and exact launch dates remain undisclosed.

Background and Fleet Acquisition

Somali Airlines, also known as the 'White Star,' was originally founded in 1964 and operated both domestic and international flights until the civil war forced it to cease operations in early 1991.

In July 2025, Transport and Civil Aviation Minister Mohamed Farah Nuh announced the lease-purchase of two Airbus A320 aircraft from Lima Air Group to form the initial fleet for the revived carrier. The agreement was signed under the auspices of Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre, with plans to transition from leasing to ownership over time.

Strategic Importance

The airline’s relaunch is expected to enhance connectivity for Somalia, utilizing key airports such as Mogadishu’s Aden Abdulle International Airport. The airport currently serves major international carriers including Turkish Airlines, Qatar Airways, Ethiopian Airlines, and Flydubai.

Minister Nuh emphasized that the acquisition of the aircraft aims to improve national and regional connectivity, create economic opportunities for citizens, and ensure compliance with global aviation safety standards.

Regional Context and Expectations

Before its suspension, Somali Airlines had built a reputation for efficient service, linking Somalia to regional hubs like Nairobi and Dar es Salaam, as well as international destinations including Jeddah, Rome, and Frankfurt.

The planned relaunch has been welcomed by aviation enthusiasts and is seen as a significant move in restoring Somalia’s presence in the East African aviation sector.