Hundreds of passengers have been left stranded as airlines operating in Somalia halted all domestic and international flights on Wednesday, January 22, 2025. The suspension comes as a result of a heated dispute with the federal government over recent tax increases imposed on the aviation sector.

Airlines Take a Stand

The Somali Airlines Operators Association (SOAA), representing nearly 20 airlines, announced the suspension in a statement, citing unresolved issues with the Ministry of Transport and the Somali Civil Aviation Authority (SCAA).

“Effective Wednesday, January 22, 2025, Somali Airlines has completely suspended all domestic and international flights until a lasting solution is reached,” the statement read.

The association criticized the tax hikes, arguing they create significant operational challenges for airlines and could make air travel unaffordable for many citizens.