MOGADISHU — Oman’s low-cost carrier SalamAir has launched its first-ever direct flights between Muscat and Mogadishu, establishing a new air corridor between the Gulf and the Horn of Africa starting from September 3, 2026.
The airline will operate two weekly services on the route, with one-way Lite fares starting from OMR 79.99. The service provides passengers with an affordable direct travel option while also offering connections through Muscat across SalamAir’s network in the Middle East, Europe, and Asia.
Mogadishu, a historic coastal city on the Indian Ocean, serves as a key maritime and commercial gateway linking East Africa with the Middle East. Its addition to SalamAir’s network is expected to support business travel, trade, and diaspora connectivity.
Strategic Expansion into East Africa
Somalia becomes the third East African country in SalamAir’s network, joining Kenya and Sudan. The airline has cited Somalia’s significant economic growth and development in recent years as a key factor in the decision to launch the route.
Adrian Hamilton-Manns, Chief Executive Officer of SalamAir, described the launch as a strategic milestone for the airline as it continues to expand its network in East Africa and develop new markets.
The new air corridor comes as Somalia’s international connectivity continues to evolve, with the route expected to support business and family travel while contributing to increased trade and stronger economic ties between the two countries.
Mogadishu’s Aden Adde International Airport has been the scene of growing public outrage against Turkish Airlines over allegations of passenger mistreatment, highlighting concerns over accountability and passenger rights at the country’s main gateway.
The aviation sector in the region remains fragile, with flights between Somalia and Kenya suspended for multiple days, leaving hundreds of passengers stranded.
Critical Note
The launch of SalamAir’s direct flights to Mogadishu represents a significant development in Somalia’s international connectivity, offering a new, affordable travel option for business travelers and the Somali diaspora. The twice-weekly service provides a direct link between Mogadishu and Muscat, with onward connections to destinations across the Middle East, Europe, and Asia.
However, the success of this route will depend on sustained demand and the ability of both countries to facilitate business and trade flows. Somalia’s aviation sector has faced significant challenges in recent decades, and while this new connection is a positive step, it remains to be seen whether it can be sustained over the long term. The route’s viability will also depend on broader economic and security conditions in Somalia, which continue to present challenges for international business and travel. The Somali government must ensure that Aden Adde International Airport has the capacity and infrastructure to handle increased traffic and that security and passenger rights concerns are adequately addressed.
