By Asha Elmi - Reporter
Somalia, 7 December 2025 — Somalia is preparing for its first full International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) safety audit next year, officials said, marking a major step toward meeting global aviation standards and improving oversight.
The announcement came during a high-level event in Mogadishu to commemorate International Civil Aviation Day, hosted by the Somali Civil Aviation Authority (SCAA).
The ceremony was attended by Speaker of the House of the People, Adan Mohamed Nur Madobe, Minister of Transport and Civil Aviation, Mohamed Farah Nuh, representatives from foreign embassies, international aviation organizations, airline operators, and industry stakeholders.
More from Somalia
Minister Nuh said, “The world now recognizes Somalia’s airspace as Class A, and we have agreements with international airlines,” highlighting progress in regulatory compliance and operational partnerships.
SCAA Director General, Ahmed Moalim Hassan, said; “We hope that 2026 will be the year Somalia is fully prepared for the ICAO audit, and we aim to pass it 100 percent on the first attempt,” emphasizing ongoing efforts in staff training, equipment modernization, and regulatory compliance.Globally, ICAO audits are conducted periodically to assess member states’ compliance with international aviation safety standards. ICAO audits have been conducted in 187 member states as of now.
Officials said a successful audit would strengthen Somalia’s global aviation recognition, enhance airspace safety, and expand opportunities for international flights.