Mogadishu (AX) — Somalia’s central government has unveiled intentions to construct a fresh airport in Mogadishu, aiming to ease the jam at Aden Adde International Airport. The Somali Civil Aviation Authority (SCAA) chief, Ahmed Moalim Hassan, shared that this new airport will rise in El Ma’an. The move is a result of an exhaustive five-year environmental and safety assessment deeming the spot fit for development.
“Mogadishu is on the brink of welcoming a new airport that can handle all types of aircraft,” Hassan mentioned. “We’ve vetted the area and found it ripe for building. This site evaluation has been our focus for half a decade.”
Hassan noted that construction will soon commence, marking a monumental stride in updating Somalia’s transport network.
Mogadishu is ballooning populace-wise, with forecasts predicting sharp rises in the next ten years. This population boom, alongside shoddy roads, better security, and burgeoning economic stability, has surged air travel demand. The city’s budding economic landscape amplifies the necessity for superior aviation facilities.
Details about the new airport are scant, yet aviation buffs suggest it should at least feature twin runways, each stretching 4,000 meters, suitable for immense international flights. It’s expected to have distinct terminals for international and domestic flights, with room for expansion to manage more traffic. A state-of-the-art cargo terminal, modern logistics, and storage systems should be included. Support facilities like maintenance hangars, fuel depots, a cutting-edge air traffic control tower, and security setups are also in the mix. The construction, gear, and operations could exceed a whopping $1 billion.
Born in 1928 under Italian rule, Aden Adde International Airport (MGQ) in Mogadishu stands as Somalia’s chief civilian and military flight hub. Post years of turbulence, earnest rehab began in 2010, morphing the airport into a modern marvel with advanced tech and facilities.
This airport boasts a primary asphalt runway (05/23), measuring 3,150 meters by 45 meters, adept at hosting hefty commercial and military jets. Its newly revamped international terminal flourishes with modern perks like duty-free shops, eateries, and VIP lounges. The smaller domestic terminal handles regional flights. Enhanced cargo facilities and a beefed-up air traffic control tower ensure smooth operations.
International giants such as Turkish Airlines, Ethiopian Airlines, Qatar Airways, FlyDubai, and Air Arabia utilize Aden Adde International. It also serves local carriers including Jubba Airways, Daallo Airlines, and Somali Airlines, offering direct routes to parts of the Middle East, Africa, and Europe, besides intra-Somali city connections.
Aden Adde International has undergone profound modernizations. Handling 40-plus daily flights, it caters to approximately 1.5 million passengers yearly and processes about 30,000 tons of cargo.
