Sudan: Authorities suspend all flight operations at Khartoum International Airport (KRT) until Oct. 30 /update 6

Event

Authorities in Sudan have suspended flight operations at Khartoum International Airport (KRT) until at least Oct. 30 amid recent civil unrest. Sudanese airspace reportedly remains open to flights passing over the country. The flight suspension at KRT comes as activists have organized mass rallies across Sudan for the second consecutive day Oct. 26; civil society groups have called for protests and acts of civil disobedience to denounce the coup d'etat which ousted Prime Minister Abdullah Hamdok Oct. 25 and to demand a return to civilian rule.

A heavy military presence and roadblocks continue to be reported across the capital and in Omdurman as of Oct. 26. Severe internet and telephone disruptions persist, although the satellite-based Salanco and Manet internet networks reportedly remain functional.

The US Embassy in Sudan issued a security alert Oct. 26, noting that no commercial flights had left the country since the Oct. 25 coup d'etat and that US nationals should shelter in place. The British and French governments have updated their travel advice for Sudan, recommending against all nonessential travel to the country.

Activists have called for additional demonstrations and roadblocks over the coming days across Sudan, including marches and protests on major thoroughfares and in front of government buildings, leading up to a "march of millions" Oct. 30.

Commercial flight disruptions are almost certain to continue at KRT over the short term. The government will almost certainly maintain a heightened police and military presence across the country over the coming days, especially at likely protest sites and other sensitive locations. Transport and business disruptions are likely during any further demonstrations. Clashes between protesters and security forces are possible at all related gatherings. Officials may implement further restrictive measures over the short term, including road closures, random searches, restrictions on telecommunications, border controls, and curfews.

Context

Sudanese forces under the direction of Army General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan staged a coup d'etat Oct. 25, with Burhan declaring a nationwide state of emergency and the dissolution of the transitional Sovereign Council. Security forces clashed with anti-coup protesters Oct. 25, resulting in at least seven people killed and 140 others wounded.

Burhan has added that the military will form a nonpartisan administration that will remain in power until elections are held to elect a civilian government in July 2023. The military also announced Oct. 26 that trade unions and professional associations had been dissolved.

Advice

If in Sudan, shelter in place until the situation becomes clearer or stabilizes. Those outside of Sudan should consider deferring travel to the country. Monitor local media and maintain contact with your diplomatic representation. Avoid concentrations of security personnel. Plan for lingering travel delays. Reconfirm all scheduled transport services, including flights, before departure. Avoid all protests. Carry identification to facilitate passage through checkpoints.