Federal Government Lifts Flight Restrictions to Kismayo Airport

On 26 December 2024, Mustaqbal Media reported that flights to Kismayo, a major city in the Lower Jubba region, had resumed after being cleared by the Federal Government of Somalia.

According to that report, the suspension lasted only a few days. It says the restrictions were initially imposed after the Federal Government accused Jubbaland authorities of engaging in illegal activities.

The same report, citing the Somali Civil Aviation Authority, states that Jubbaland officials allegedly hijacked a privately-owned aircraft and used it to transport a delegation to Doolow, a town in the Gedo region. The hijacking claim is an allegation, attributed to the Somali Civil Aviation Authority. Mustaqbal Media's report does not describe the nature of the "illegal activities" the Federal Government accused Jubbaland authorities of, nor does it give the exact date the suspension was imposed or the exact date flights resumed.

On the airport's current status, Mustaqbal Media cites unnamed sources who say normal operations have now resumed at Kismayo Airport, with flights arriving and departing as usual. No named airport operator, Somali Civil Aviation Authority confirmation, Jubbaland official or airline is cited confirming that normal operations resumed. Mustaqbal Media describes Kismayo Airport as one of Somalia's busiest airports, a description it does not support with passenger, aircraft movement or cargo figures. Mustaqbal Media also states that the reopening is expected to ease travel and trade in the region, an expectation rather than a measured outcome.

What the report does not establish

• It does not establish what has happened at Kismayo Airport since 26 December 2024. No later update is provided.
• It does not give a verified passenger, cargo or flight-movement figure, or a verified ranking of the airport by traffic.
• It does not carry any current statement from Jubbaland authorities on the resumption.