Somali Civil Aviation Authority responds to complaints raised by airline operators

GOOBJOOG NEWS|MOGADISHU: The Somali Civil Aviation Authority has responded to complaints raised by the Somali Airlines Operators Association that said it would ground all domestic flights beginning Sunday, June 19, due to the authority’s failure to secure all flights and airports in the country.

In a statement released by the Somali Civil Aviation Authority (HDRS), the parastatal has quickly come to its defense, saying it is responsible for the safety of all flights and airports in the country, in accordance with international standards (ICAO) and SOMCARS.

“HDRS hereby declares that there is no risk to domestic aviation safety. The agency is unaware of the letter, which was posted on social media, Ref: AOA / 008/6/2022, dated 18th June, 2022, and the risks involved,” read the statement.

On June 18,  all airlines operating in the country issued a joint statement saying that they had resorted to striking due to failure by the country’s aviation authority to ensure security of flights and airports.

“As of Sunday, June 19, 2022, all flights to and from the country’s airports will be suspended until a solution is found that can save the safety of aircraft and passengers,” the statement said.

It is still unclear whether the airlines will resume normal operations following the reassurance by the Somali Civil Aviation Authority.