The Somali Civil Aviation Authority (SCAA) has issued strong warning letters to Ethiopian Airlines and Flydubai, citing serious violations of Somali sovereignty. In separate correspondences dated August 21, 2024, the SCAA accused both airlines of improperly representing destinations within Somalia and removing references to Somali locations, which undermines the nation’s sovereignty. The SCAA emphasized that these actions are unacceptable and have led to numerous complaints from the Somali public.

In the letter to Ethiopian Airlines, the SCAA highlighted concerns over recent adjustments made to flight operations, where the airline removed references to Somali destinations. The SCAA demanded immediate resolution, warning that failure to comply by August 23, 2024, would result in the suspension of all Ethiopian Airlines flights to Somalia. The authority expressed a commitment to protect Somalia’s airspace and ensure that all airlines operating in the country respect its sovereignty.

Similarly, in the letter addressed to Flydubai, the SCAA accused the airline of inaccurately representing destinations served to and from Somalia on its official platforms, including websites and mobile applications. The authority demanded that Flydubai correct these misrepresentations by August 24, 2024, or face the revocation of its operating permit within Somalia. The SCAA underscored that any failure to adhere to these directives would be met with immediate enforcement actions.

These letters reflect Somalia’s strong stance on protecting its airspace and territorial integrity. The SCAA has made it clear that it will not tolerate any actions by airlines that disregard or undermine the sovereignty of the Federal Government of Somalia.