MOGADISHU (Somaliguardian) – Somaliland authorities have issued a direct mandate for Fly Dubai and Ethiopian Airlines to reinstate the use of the name “Somaliland” in their flight listings for Hargeisa and Berbera. This move follows a recent decision by both carriers which began referring flight destinations in the break-away region as part of Somalia in response to a directive from the Somali federal government.
Tensions broke out earlier this month when Somalia’s federal authorities pressured airlines not to use the term Somaliland in their flight listings. This was seen as part of a broader effort by the Somali government to assert its sovereignty over the self-declared independent region of Somaliland. The Somali government claims the region, which declared independence in 1991, as part of its own territory, despite Somaliland’s pursuit of international recognition.
In response, the Somaliland government has escalated the situation by demanding that Fly Dubai and Ethiopian Airlines return to listing “Somaliland” alongside Hargeisa and Berbera.
Airlines have been placed in a challenging position, balancing their operations and compliance with varying political pressures. Fly Dubai and Ethiopian Airlines, both of which maintain significant operations in the region, have been given a 21-day ultimatum to conform to the new directive.
Contact us: info@somaliguardian.com
