MOGADISHU (KAAB TV) – A plane crash at the Mogadishu International Airport on Tuesday has left at least 11 people injured, including a woman with critical injuries.
Eyewitnesses reported that the local flight, operated by Halla Airline, crashed as it entered the runway.
The domestic flight, which was traveling from Garowe to Mogadishu, had a total of 34 individuals on board, including 30 passengers and 4 crew members, according to a statement from The Somali Civil Aviation Authority (SCAA).
In response to the incident, the SCAA has launched an investigation into the crash.
“SCAA would like to reaffirm that the preliminary report will be released once the current investigation concludes,” it added.
Terrified passengers were escorted away from the crash site as the smoke-engulfed Embraer EMB 120 veered off the narrow runway, while firefighters rushed to the scene.
Those who survived the crash expressed their gratitude for being alive.
Anab Hashi, one of the survivors, shared her relief, stating, “We are lucky to have survived. I don’t know what to say, indeed. Thanks to God that we are alive.”
The incident highlights some of the challenges faced in the aviation sector in Somalia. Aircraft operating in the country are often outdated and poorly maintained, while airports lack proper security guidelines. Additionally, domestic flights are often operated by newly trained pilots with limited experience.
Previous incidents, such as the Fokker 50 crash operated by Jubba Airways in July 2022, serve as reminders of the importance of stringent safety measures. In that incident, all 36 occupants survived, but 16 passengers sustained injuries and required hospitalization.
Despite launching an investigation, the cause of that crash is yet to be determined.