The Somalia Civil Aviation Authority (SCAA) has issued a 48-hour ultimatum to Kenya Airways, demanding a formal explanation and resolution concerning reports of significant delays that left Somali passengers stranded at Nairobi’s Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) for three days. The ultimatum follows growing concerns over the treatment of Somali nationals, including civil servants, who were denied entry into Kenya despite holding valid visas and were forced to endure extended waits without hotel accommodations.
The situation has sparked widespread outrage in Somalia, where many view the delays and the denial of entry as targeted actions against Somali citizens. According to reports, the Somali passengers were left stranded after Kenya Airways canceled its flights to Mogadishu for three consecutive days, leaving them with no immediate recourse.
In response to these events, the SCAA has reportedly briefly halted a Kenya Airways flight from departing Mogadishu’s Aden Adde International Airport earlier today, a clear demonstration of their dissatisfaction with the airline’s handling of Somali passengers in Nairobi. The aircraft was prevented from taking off as Somali authorities demanded explanations regarding the mistreatment of their citizens.
The SCAA’s statement highlighted the airline’s failure to comply with flight regulations that require adequate care and accommodations for stranded passengers. The Authority emphasized that such actions violate international aviation standards and the rights of passengers.
This move by the Somalia Civil Aviation Authority comes amidst increasing tensions between the two countries, as Somali nationals express growing frustration over what they perceive as discriminatory practices by Kenyan authorities. The situation is particularly sensitive given the historical and diplomatic ties between Somalia and Kenya.
Somali authorities have made it clear that they expect Kenya Airways to address the issue promptly and take necessary corrective measures. The airline has 48 hours to respond to the ultimatum, after which the SCAA may consider further actions, including potential sanctions or continued restrictions on Kenya Airways’ operations in Somalia.
