National carrier Kenya Airways (KQ) has announced the suspension of flights to Mogadishu, Somalia from October 14, 2024.
KQ Group Managing Director and CEO Allan Kilavuka announced the decision in a letter to Mohamed Daghar, Principal Secretary (PS) State Department of Transport Ministry of Roads and Transport on October 9, 2024.
The CEO explained that the KQ Board made the decision after careful analysis of the current business environment.
“Due to operational challenges, Kenya Airways Board and Management has made the decision to suspend passenger flights to Mogadishu effective 14th October 2024,” Kilavuka said in a letter addressed to Transport PS Mohamed Daghar.
In the letter seen by The Kenya Times, Kilavuka thanked the Transport Ministry, Kenyan Embassy in Mogadishu, and all government officials who continue to support the KQ as it seeks to expand its network and provide connectivity and reliable air travel services in the region and beyond.
However, the CEO urged the government and relevant agencies to understand the potential negative impacts that may result from the move.
He hinted that the suspension may reverse the gains Kenya has made in boosting the relationship with Somalia.
“Kenya Airways requests for your understanding of this unforeseen development that may reverse the positive trend and gains made so far,” the CEO said.
“This decision was made after careful analysis and consideration in the best interest of the airline in the prevailing business environment. We look forward to your understanding and consideration.”
The letter was also copied to Kubai Iringo, Ambassador of Kenya to the Federal Republic of Somalia and PS State Department Foreign Affairs Abraham Korir Singoei.
Kenya Airways Reintroduces Planes to Somalia
Kenya Airways reintroduced nonstop flights to Mogadishu, Somalia on February 15, 202 in what was hailed as a landmark achievement in regional connectivity and development.
The three flights in a week were to be operated from Terminal 2 at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA).
Kenya Airways had initially launched flights to Mogadishu in December 2018 but had to suspend the route due to the Covid-19 pandemic.
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In August 2023, bilateral air services agreement between Kenya and Somalia were signed paving the way for direct flights.
Speaking during the relaunch, Kilavuka said the resumption of flights to Mogadishu aligns with the airline’s strategic commitment to expanding its network across the African continent and contributing to its long-term economic progress.
He stated that the flights were expected to improve connectivity for business travelers, the Somali diaspora, and NGOs among others.
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Somalia Stability
Somalia has witnessed significant positive change as peace efforts bear fruit in recent years.
In December 2023, Somalia’s was formally admitted to the East African Community (EAC), making it the eighth member of the regional block.
In January 2023, the Somali airspace regained its Class A classification after more than 30 years, a move recognized by the International Air Transport Association (IATA) for its potential to enhance safety and efficiency in the region.
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