ICAO Engages With ESAF Head In Nairobi Over Somalia’s Airspace Safety
As tensions continue to rise, the current airspace dispute between Somaliland and Somalia has become a cause for concern in the aviation industry.
Recently, the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) has raised concerns over Somalia’s responsibility for maintaining a safe airspace. They have asked for a discussion with the head of the Eastern and Southern African Region (ESAF) in Nairobi this week. The ICAO has also given Somalia’s Aviation Authority a checklist form asking what airports it controls.
According to reports from Nairobi, Somalia has been criticized by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) for airspace infractions that have caused disruption and issues for both countries.
This dispute has been ongoing for some time now. Both Somaliland and Somalia claim to have control over the airspace above their territories. However, this leads to confusion and potential safety hazards for airlines that are flying in the region. Without a clear understanding of who is responsible for the airspace, it is difficult to ensure that all necessary safety measures are being taken.
The root of the problem lies in the actions of the Somali government, which has turned back several planes that were heading towards Somaliland. In response, Somaliland has claimed that its airspace is under its control, leading to a stalemate between the two sides. Additionally, the Somali government withdrew from the agreement that the airspace of the country should be managed equally by Hargeisa and Mogadishu, thus breaking the agreement.
The ICAO’s involvement in this matter is significant. As a specialized agency of the United Nations, the ICAO is responsible for establishing standards and recommended practices for international civil aviation. Their involvement in this dispute highlights the importance of maintaining safe and secure airspace for all airlines and passengers.
It is important to note that this dispute is not just about who has control over the airspace, but also about the political tensions between Somaliland and Somalia. This makes it even more difficult to resolve the issue, as it requires a political solution as well as a technical one.
In the meantime, airlines operating in the region must take extra precautions to ensure the safety of their passengers and crew. This includes following all recommended safety procedures and protocols, as well as staying up-to-date on any changes or updates regarding the airspace dispute.
Ultimately, it is critical that a clear resolution is reached between Somaliland and Somalia regarding their responsibilities for maintaining safe airspace. This will not only benefit the airlines and passengers operating in the region but will also promote peace and stability between the two countries.
As the ICAO continues to monitor the situation and push for a resolution, we can only hope that a peaceful and safe solution can be found. In the meantime, it is important for all parties involved to prioritize the safety and security of all those who rely on the airspace in question.
