On Saturday, the Somali Civil Aviation Authority (SCAA) announced that it has suspended some of the aircrafts operating in Somalia due to technical faults and failure to comply with safety standards set by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO). This decision was made in order to improve flight safety and restore passenger confidence. The measure was prompted by a recent incident on February 10, in which a Starsky Aviation aircraft experienced a mechanical problem shortly after takeoff from Adden Adde International Airport. The plane skidded off the runway and crashed into the Indian Ocean, but fortunately all 55 passengers on board survived. This incident has raised concerns about the effectiveness of safety inspections. The SCAA has stated that it is taking strict measures to strengthen the integration of the East African Economic Community, including enforcing seat regulations, ensuring quality flight services, and adhering to safety evaluations. However, passengers traveling from Mogadishu to Nairobi have expressed their frustration with the high ticket prices, which can range from $400 to $450 for a 90-minute flight. Many passengers have noted that these prices do not align with the short distance and the quality of services provided. Reports from passengers indicate that some airlines are using small aircraft with cramped seating in order to maximize the number of passengers per flight.
