Somalia's aviation industry is gradually recovering. The newly established Rayaan Air received its first aircraft, a Fokker 50 turboprop, in the capital Mogadishu on February 20th, marking the official launch of the airline's operations.
The Fokker 50 landed at Aden Adde International Airport, which has been designated as Rayaan Air's primary hub. Rayaan Air stated, "The aircraft has landed at Aden Adde International Airport in Somalia for our inaugural flight." Currently, the airline has not announced specific routes or target destinations.
The launch of Rayaan Air closely follows another Somali startup airline, Hilaac Air, which also recently received its first Saab 340 turboprop aircraft. Hilaac Air plans to connect Mogadishu with Somali cities such as Hargeisa and Garowe, as well as Nairobi in neighboring Kenya.
Somalia's aviation industry, long affected by conflict, is now showing signs of recovery. Growth is primarily driven by private operators aiming to meet Somali and regional travel demands, while airport infrastructure, especially in Mogadishu, continues to improve. This progress is helping Somalia's aviation sector gradually regain its vitality.
