The Somali government announced that the airline plans to resume flights next month, after suspending operations in 1991 when the country descended into civil war.
Somali Airlines, formerly known as White Star, operated domestic and international routes before its operations came to an end following the overthrow of President Siad Barre’s government in 1991, which was followed by decades of conflict.
To prepare for the relaunch, the Somali government has acquired two Airbus A320 aircraft.
Transport Minister Mohamed Farah said the two aircraft are only the beginning, with plans to acquire at least two or three more planes to expand the airline’s network and enable it to compete with international carriers.
Farah said the return of Somali Airlines should not be viewed simply as the resumption of ticket sales and passenger services, but as a symbol of Somalia’s long journey of rebuilding, resilience and restoring national confidence.
“This is not simply about acquiring two new Airbus A320 aircraft; it is a powerful symbol of the journey our country has undertaken through resilience, rebuilding and restoring national pride,” Farah said.
He added that the airline would make it easier for Somalis living around the world to travel to and from their home country, while also helping families and businesses improve connections and facilitate travel and trade.
Farah noted that Somalis travel frequently, making the return of a national carrier an important step in improving connectivity.
The development comes as Somalia continues efforts to rebuild its aviation infrastructure after decades of conflict.
In 2018, Somalia regained full control of its airspace after it had been managed for years by the United Nations aviation agency, the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO).
President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud also recently inaugurated a new airport in Mogadishu’s Haawaay area. The facility is expected to ease congestion at Aden Adde International Airport and provide the capital with an airport capable of meeting international standards.
The revival of Somali Airlines is therefore being seen as more than the return of a national carrier, with authorities hoping it will strengthen connectivity, support trade and tourism, and deepen Somalia’s integration with the global aviation network.
