Somalia’s national carrier, Somali Airlines, is set to return to the skies after more than three decades on the ground, marking a major step in the country’s efforts to rebuild its aviation sector.

The Federal Government officially revived the airline in July 2025, signing an agreement to acquire two Airbus A320 aircraft for the national carrier.

Transport and Civil Aviation Minister Mohamed Farah said the aircraft were acquired for the Somali people, with plans for flights to begin with regional routes before expanding to international destinations.

The government says the revival of Somali Airlines is intended to improve connections for Somalia’s large diaspora and create employment opportunities for young aviation professionals.

The initial two A320s are expected to form the foundation of the new fleet, with plans to add two or three more aircraft in 2026 and eventually introduce larger aircraft for long-haul international services.

Somalia is also investing in airport infrastructure. Aden Adde International Airport in Mogadishu is undergoing upgrades, while the government plans to renovate 15 of the country’s 72 airports to meet international standards.

Somali pilots and aviation professionals trained abroad are also being recruited to help rebuild the airline’s technical capacity, with the diaspora expected to play an important role.

For many Somalis, the return of the national flag carrier is more than an aviation project. It represents a symbol of national recovery, renewed connectivity and the country’s efforts to rebuild after decades of conflict.

After more than 35 years without a functioning state airline, the planned return of Somali Airlines is being presented as a new chapter in Somalia’s economic and national development.