The Somali government has announced that the national carrier, Somali Airlines, will operate its first flight in September of this year, marking a major step forward in the restoration of the national airline.
The government has not yet provided further details regarding the inaugural flight at the same time, criticism remains strong due to several previously failed claims by the government.
​The Somali public has long awaited seeing an aircraft bearing the Somali flag once again connecting countries around the world.
The return of Somali Airlines could also prove to be a significant development for Somalia’s aviation sector and international connectivity.
​Somalia’s international aviation market is also expected to expand further, Airlines from Saudi Arabia, Oman, and Rwanda are planning to join the international carriers operating flights to and from Somalia.
Oman’s SalamAir has announced that it will begin direct flights between Muscat and Mogadishu twice a week starting September 3, 2026.
​Qatar Airways previously joined the international airlines operating in Somalia, alongside Turkish Airlines, Ethiopian Airlines, EgyptAir, Air Djibouti, and other carriers.
Turkish Airlines has played a particularly prominent role in connecting Somalia with the world, having resumed its flights to Mogadishu 16 years ago when the country was still experiencing very difficult security conditions and ongoing conflict.
​If the plan to revive Somali Airlines succeeds, Somalia will once again have a national airline, returning a plane bearing the Somali flag to the international skies after many years of absence.
