Somali civil aviation agency suspends aircraft over safety violations after runway incident
The Somalia Civil Aviation Authority (SCAA) announced the decision following what it described as safety compliance checks on multiple operators.
Mogadishu (Somali Report) - Somalia’s aviation regulator has suspended several aircraft operating in the country after inspections uncovered technical faults and violations of international safety standards, in a move aimed at restoring passenger confidence and tightening oversight.
The Somalia Civil Aviation Authority (SCAA) announced the decision following what it described as safety compliance checks on multiple operators.
The authority said some aircraft failed to meet standards set by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), though it did not disclose the exact number of planes grounded or the airlines affected.
The regulatory action comes days after a February 10 incident involving a plane operated by Starsky Aviation.
The aircraft reportedly suffered a technical malfunction shortly after departing from Aden Adde International Airport.
Upon landing, it overshot the runway and came to rest near the Indian Ocean shoreline. All 55 passengers and crew survived, but the incident heightened scrutiny over aircraft maintenance and regulatory compliance.
In a statement, the SCAA said the suspensions are part of broader efforts to strengthen flight safety oversight and ensure adherence to global aviation norms.
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Authorities also signaled tighter enforcement measures going forward, including more rigorous inspections covering cabin configurations, seat dimensions, service standards, and rating procedures.
The regulator said the measures are designed not only to improve safety but also to safeguard passenger rights amid growing regional economic integration and increased air traffic.
The announcement comes at a time of mounting frustration among travelers, particularly on the busy Mogadishu–Nairobi route.
Passengers have complained about high ticket prices and cramped seating conditions.
A round-trip ticket between the two capitals typically costs between $400 and $450, despite the flight lasting around 90 minutes.
Some travelers report that certain airlines deploy smaller aircraft with tightly spaced seating arrangements to maximize capacity, leading to limited legroom and discomfort.
Somalia’s aviation sector has expanded steadily in recent years, reflecting the country’s gradual stabilization and reintegration into regional markets.
However, the latest crackdown highlights persistent challenges in safety oversight, competition, and consumer protection.
About the Author
Osman Hassan is a Senior Editor at the Somali Report based in Nairobi with over 15 years of experience in journalism. He has worked with local and international media outlets in Somalia and is an award-winning journalist. His reporting focuses on politics, security, and regional affairs in the Horn of Africa.