Flight Permit and Visa Dispute Sparks Tensions Between Somalia and Somaliland

By Amanuel Janberu
Published on 11/04/25

Tensions have been high in Somalia's airspace due to conflicting flight permits and visa regulations issued by Somalia and its self-declared independent state of Somaliland.

The incident has caused confusion for airlines and passengers, and has disrupted many travelers' travel.

The Somali Civil Aviation Authority has announced that airlines will not be able to transport passengers from Mogadishu to Somaliland without an electronic visa (e-visa), warning that any violation of this rule could result in a flight ban.

Meanwhile, Somaliland's Ministry of Civil Aviation and Airports has issued another directive stating that any aircraft entering the country's airspace without permission will face legal action.

The ministry said that all civilian passenger and commercial flights must obtain permission before entering or passing through the country's airspace.

The ministry warned that any unauthorized flight would be considered a violation of Somaliland's sovereignty and would be subject to legal action.