Somalia: Govt reopens Doolow airport after months-long flight ban

MOGADISHU – Somalia's federal government has lifted a months-long flight ban to the southwestern town of Doolow in the Gedo region, allowing domestic air traffic to resume from Saturday, the interior ministry said.

In a statement, Federal Internal Security Minister Abdullahi Sheikh Ismail Fartaag said the decision follows a security review and commitments by local authorities in Doolow to ensure the safety of the airport and compliance with national aviation regulations.

The airstrip had been closed since December 23, 2024, after a Halla Airlines aircraft on the Mogadishu–Kismayo–Mogadishu route was reportedly diverted without clearance and forcefully landed at Doolow airport, in what federal authorities called a breach of Somali airspace laws.

“Given the pressing needs of the Gedo population, particularly with the Hajj season approaching, and based on assurances from Doolow officials and regional security forces, we have decided to reopen the airport as of May 11,” the minister said.

The flight suspension had drawn criticism from the Jubaland regional administration, which accused the federal government of using the ban to pressure local communities politically. Residents of Gedo had also expressed frustration over restricted access to medical care and trade routes during the closure.

The move to reopen Doolow airport is expected to ease movement for civilians and strengthen cooperation between regional and federal authorities.

The federal government imposed a travel ban on Jubaland last year following the onset of a political standoff, and reports indicate that the Presidency is now working on establishing a new administration in the Gedo region aimed at undermining the authority of Ahmed Madobe.

GAROWE ONLINE