MOGADISHU — The Minister of Transport and Aviation of the Federal Republic of Somalia, Mohamed Farah Nuux, has issued a full apology to the management and staff of SalamAir over an incident involving the mistreatment of one of the airline’s employees .
The Minister strongly condemned any act that undermines the dignity, honour, and safety of aviation staff and all personnel working at the country’s airports . He emphasized that such conduct does not reflect the system and etiquette of Somali governance .
The incident occurred at Aden Adde International Airport in Mogadishu, according to reports, with the minister stating that the government would take appropriate action against those responsible .
Legal and Security Measures
The Ministry has announced several measures to prevent such incidents from recurring. These include the implementation of strict legal measures against anyone involved in the incident . The Ministry also committed to enhancing safety and security protocols at airports to protect staff of both international and local airlines operating in the country .
Additionally, the Ministry affirmed that it would uphold existing agreements and maintain good relations with airlines serving the Somali people . SalamAir recently launched direct flights between Muscat and Mogadishu, establishing a new air corridor between the Gulf and the Horn of Africa, with the airline operating two weekly services on the route.
Airport Security and Professional Standards
The incident has raised broader concerns about the treatment of aviation staff at Somali airports, where security protocols and professional standards have at times been subject to criticism. The Minister’s statement stressed that the safety and dignity of airline staff would be fully guaranteed while they are carrying out their duties in Somalia .
The incident follows previous concerns about the treatment of passengers and staff at Mogadishu airport, including allegations of abuse involving Turkish Airlines that sparked public outrage and calls for accountability.
Critical Note
The government’s swift apology and commitment to legal action represent a necessary response to an incident that could have damaged Somalia’s reputation as an emerging destination for international airlines. By taking responsibility and promising corrective measures, the Ministry of Transport is signaling its recognition that the treatment of international aviation staff is not just a matter of protocol but of national interest.
However, the effectiveness of these commitments will depend on implementation. The Ministry must ensure that its promises of legal action and enhanced security protocols translate into tangible improvements on the ground, and that those responsible for the mistreatment of SalamAir staff are held accountable.
For SalamAir and other international airlines, the government’s response will be a test of whether Somalia can provide the professional and secure environment that international carriers expect. The incident also highlights the broader challenges of airport security and professional standards in Somalia, where decades of conflict have left institutions weak and accountability mechanisms fragile. The government must seize this opportunity to demonstrate its commitment to upholding international aviation standards.
