Bosaso, PUNTLAND – Ethiopian Airlines and Daallo Airlines today cancelled their flights to Bosaso, citing mounting security concerns following threats issued by the militia group known as the Puntland Security Forces (PSF). This development marks a critical juncture in the ongoing power struggle between the Puntland government and the increasingly militant PSF.
The decision by both Ethiopian Airlines and Daallo Airlines to reroute their scheduled flights to Garowe, Puntland’s capital, effectively bypassing Bosaso Airport entirely, comes as a severe blow to the region’s economic hub. This move, occurring just a day after the PSF reiterated its threats, warning of “serious security risks,” underscores the gravity of the threat posed by the PSF militia to security in Bosaso.
While neither airline has issued detailed public statements, industry insiders suggest that concerns over passenger safety led to this precautionary decision. The airlines’ actions represent a significant shift from their previous stance of continuing operations despite the PSF’s warnings.
PSF’s Criminal Evolution
The PSF’s trajectory from a semi-legitimate paramilitary force to a group engaged in criminal activities lies at the heart of this crisis. Intelligence reports indicate that the PSF has been involved in the illegal importation of weapons from Yemen.
This shift in the PSF’s activities has not gone unnoticed within its own ranks. The defection of more than 165 fighters to the government in recent days speaks volumes about the group’s loss of legitimacy. These defectors have publicly denounced the PSF’s tactics, refusing to be part of a militia that threatens innocent civilians and undermines regional stability.
In a statement tonight, Puntland’s Minister of Civil Aviation and Airports assured airlines and passengers that Bosaso Airport remains fully operational and secure. The minister emphasized that despite the threats issued by the Puntland Security Forces (PSF), there have been no incidents affecting airport operations. To underscore this point, the minister highlighted that two UAE-owned planes landed at Bosaso Airport earlier today, with one still stationed at the airport tonight, signaling that international flights and cargo operations continue as normal.
This latest statement from the Ministry of Civil Aviation reveals a stark contrast between the PSF’s threats and the actual situation on the ground. The successful landing of UAE-owned planes at Bosaso Airport illustrates that, despite the PSF’s rhetoric, the group lacks the capacity to disrupt major operations. The cancellation of flights by Ethiopian Airlines and Daallo Airlines appears more precautionary than a reflection of genuine danger. The continued presence of international flights suggests that, while political instability persists, the PSF’s threats may be more about creating leverage for political gains than an actual attempt to compromise airport security. The Puntland government’s focus now will likely be on stabilizing the situation and restoring confidence among international carriers.
Bosaso Airport is not just a transportation hub; it’s a lifeline for Puntland’s economy and its connection to the broader Horn of Africa. The prolonged disruptions to the airport’s operations could have severe economic repercussions, potentially isolating Bosaso from key regional trade routes.
As Garowe absorbs the redirected flights, questions arise about the long-term impact on Bosaso’s economic prominence within Puntland. The shift in air traffic patterns, if prolonged, could lead to a redistribution of economic activities within the region, with significant implications for local businesses, employment, and regional development plans.
Update: Both Ethiopian Airlines and Dallo Airlines resumed flights to Bosaso, today and yesterday, respectively. That is, 16 and 17 September, respectively.
