Somaliland seeks international legal support to reclaim airspace control as disputes with Somalia over aviation governance intensify.
Somaliland’s government is intensifying efforts to regain control of its airspace, a move that could further strain its already tense relationship with Somalia. The airspace, currently managed by Somalia, was previously under international oversight before being transferred to Mogadishu’s control years ago.
Somaliland’s Minister of Aviation and Airport Development, Fuad Ahmed Nuuh, confirmed that reclaiming airspace management is a top priority. “We are in a dispute with Somalia over airspace management, and our goal is to restore full control,” Nuuh stated, adding that Somaliland is pursuing legal avenues and seeking international support to resolve the issue.
The dispute has been further complicated by Somaliland’s agreements with Ethiopia, which include granting Ethiopian Airlines access to Berbera port in exchange for stakes in the airline and potential recognition of Somaliland’s sovereignty. Somalia views these developments as a violation of its territorial integrity, exacerbating the conflict.
Recent incidents underscore the gravity of the situation. Somali authorities have denied landing rights to Ethiopian Airlines flights bound for Hargeisa, citing unauthorized operations. International aviation authorities have also flagged safety concerns, including near-miss incidents caused by conflicting air traffic control (ATC) instructions from unauthorized controllers.
The International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) has expressed concern over these safety risks. “Conflicting ATC instructions in the region are creating serious safety threats,” an ICAO spokesperson warned, highlighting the urgency of resolving the airspace dispute.
Somaliland has criticized Somalia’s recent implementation of a new satellite phone system for air traffic controllers, accusing Mogadishu of using it to undermine Somaliland’s claims. Additionally, Somaliland alleges that Somalia has mismanaged over $60 million intended for air traffic infrastructure, causing delays in the development of Somaliland’s aviation sector.
As part of its broader aviation strategy, Somaliland plans to upgrade key airports, including Burco and Boorama, and fully operationalize the modernized Berbera airport. These steps aim to bolster Somaliland’s connectivity and assert its sovereignty in the region.
With safety concerns mounting and political tensions simmering, the airspace dispute underscores the complex challenges facing Somaliland’s bid for recognition and autonomy. The outcome of this standoff will likely shape the region’s aviation landscape and broader geopolitical dynamics in the Horn of Africa.
