In 2023, Somalia achieved a major milestone in its aviation history by reclaiming full control of its airspace, a responsibility that had been managed externally for decades. This transition represented more than a technical shift—it symbolized Somalia’s gradual recovery of sovereignty, an effort to improve aviation safety, and a critical step in re-establishing its place in the global aviation community.
Historical Context
For years, Somalia’s civil war and instability left the nation unable to independently manage its own skies. Since the 1990s, the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) jointly administered Somalia’s airspace through the Civil Aviation Caretaker Authority for Somalia (CACAS), headquartered in Nairobi.
By 2023, with improved security and stronger institutions, Somalia was finally prepared to resume responsibility, transferring airspace management from CACAS to the Somali Civil Aviation Authority (SCAA).
Key Developments in 2023
- Relocation of Airspace Management to Mogadishu: Operations shifted to the newly modernized control center in Mogadishu, symbolizing Somalia’s ability to handle critical aviation functions domestically.
- Training of Aviation Professionals: Somali air traffic controllers, engineers, and regulatory staff underwent extensive training to manage advanced systems and ensure compliance with ICAO standards.
- Modernization of Systems: Investments in radar, digital communications, and surveillance technology improved monitoring and safety across Somalia’s airspace.
- Revenue Collection: With control of its skies, Somalia gained the ability to collect overflight fees, providing a new source of national revenue.
- International Support: ICAO, UNDP, and other aviation partners continued to provide technical assistance during the transition period.
Benefits of Airspace Reclamation
- Restored Sovereignty: Reclaiming airspace reinforced Somalia’s national authority after years of external oversight.
- Economic Gains: Overflight charges provided sustainable revenue for rebuilding aviation infrastructure and supporting national development.
- Improved Safety: Modern systems and local oversight enhanced monitoring of air traffic, reducing risks in Somali skies.
- Global Integration: Somalia reasserted itself as a responsible aviation stakeholder, strengthening ties with regional and global partners.
- Capacity Building: Training programs created opportunities for Somali professionals in aviation management.
Challenges Remaining
- Security Risks: Air traffic operations remained vulnerable due to ongoing security concerns in some regions.
- Technical Capacity: Somalia continued to rely on international assistance to fully manage advanced systems.
- Sustainability of Revenue: Ensuring transparent management of overflight fees posed a governance challenge.
- Global Confidence: Building trust among international airlines required consistent safety performance and reliability.
In a nutshell
Somalia’s resumption of airspace management in 2023 was a landmark achievement in restoring national sovereignty and advancing aviation safety. While challenges such as security and capacity-building persist, the move marked a turning point for Somalia’s aviation sector. By taking charge of its skies, Somalia strengthened its sovereignty, gained valuable revenue, and signaled its readiness to rejoin the global aviation community on equal footing.
