Somalia turns away "unauthorised" Ethiopian airlines planeMOGADISHU, Somalia - The Somalia Civil Aviation Authority turned away an Ethiopian Airlines aircraft from the country's airspace on Wednesday, state media confirmed, an incident which comes amid rising tensions between the two friendly nations. Ethiopia and Somalia were due to meet on Thursday in Uganda following a controversial deal signed by Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed and Somaliland regional leader Muse Bihi Abdi. According to the Somalia government, the aviation team ordered “unscheduled” Ethiopian Airlines flight ETH8372 to “avoid” Somalia airspace. "Today, the Somali Civil Aviation Authority took action to turn back an Ethiopian Airlines plane, Dash 8-Q400, flight number ET8372, from Somali airspace as it was found to be unauthorized," read the message. The Authority emphasizes that unlicensed aircraft will not be allowed to enter the country's airspace, prioritizing order and cooperation with global counterparts."

Source: Ethiopian News January 17, 2024 12:58 UTC