The Republic of Somaliland’s Ministry of Civil Aviation and Airports Development (MOCAAD) has issued a new directive requiring all civil aircraft to secure prior overflight permits before entering, transiting, or operating within the country’s airspace.
The policy, set to take effect on November 10, 2025, applies to scheduled, non-scheduled, commercial, and general aviation flights. It is framed under the 1944 Chicago Convention on International Civil Aviation and underscores Somaliland’s assertion of full sovereignty over its land, sea, and air territories.
According to the ministry’s press statement, the directive seeks to bolster safety, security, and efficiency in air navigation by aligning with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) standards.
Key objectives include:Improving air traffic management, meteorological services, and aeronautical information.
Enhancing emergency response capabilities, technical landing support, and Search and Rescue (SAR) operations at major airports, including Hargeisa Egal International Airport (HGA) and Berbera International Airport (BBO).
Flights without prior approval will be considered violations of national sovereignty, potentially triggering enforcement measures under Somaliland’s laws and international aviation regulations.
MOCAAD emphasized its dedication to fostering cooperative international air travel and urged airlines, operators, and neighboring states to comply.