Mogadishu (KAAB TV) – The Office of the Minister of Internal Security of Somalia has announced that flights to Dolow town in the Gedo region are now permitted to resume. This decision follows a temporary flight ban imposed due to security concerns.
In a statement, Minister Abdullahi Sheikh Ismail Fartaag explained that Dolow Airport had been closed since December 23, 2024. The closure followed a serious security breach in which a Halla Airlines flight (60-AAB), originally operating on the Mogadishu–Kismayo–Mogadishu route, was hijacked from Kismayo Airport and diverted to Deg Airport. Authorities stated that the closure aimed to enforce Somalia’s aviation laws and protect national security.
Minister Fartaag emphasized the importance of reopening the airport to support the needs of residents in the Gedo region, especially ahead of the Hajj pilgrimage season. He added that the decision came after assurances from local authorities and regional security agencies that they would address and neutralize any threats to public safety and constitutional order.
“In recognition of the urgent needs of the people of Gedo, particularly with the upcoming Hajj season, and following commitments from local leaders and security forces to maintain order, we have decided to reopen Dolow Airport starting May 11, 2025,” the statement read.
During the airport’s closure, many residents—especially those seeking medical care or conducting business in Mogadishu—were stranded. The Jubaland state government has repeatedly accused the federal government of using the airport closure as a means to punish residents of the Kunol district.
READ THE LETTER FROM THE OFFICE OF THE MINISTER OF INTERNAL SECURITY OF SOMALIA BELOW:-
