Kenya: Direct flights from Mogadishu to Nairobi suspended May 10 - August 9

Event

Direct flights from Mogadishu to Nairobi have been suspended by Kenyan authorities due to alleged security concerns. Such flights will now be required to land in Wajir (Wajir county) for security checks before being allowed to proceed to other parts of the country. The suspension is expected to last until Friday, August 9, when authorities will review whether to extend or lift it. Somali authorities have asked Kenya to reconsider the suspension, and believe the decision was politically motivated.

Associated flight disruptions are to be expected over the coming weeks and months.

Context

In 2006, Kenya imposed a strict security policy requiring flights from Mogadishu to land in Wajir for security checks before heading on to other parts of the country, but this ban was lifted in 2016 after both countries agreed to security arrangements for departing flights from Somalia.

Separately, Kenya and Somalia are engaged in an ongoing maritime territorial dispute at the International Court of Justice.

Advice

Individuals flying from Mogadishu to Kenya are advised to monitor developments to the situation, prepare for flight disruptions, and seek alternative travel arrangements, if necessary.