MOGADISHU – The President of the Federal Republic of Somalia, Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, returned to the capital, Mogadishu, on a Somali-owned and registered aircraft. The official flight, which brought the President back from a conference in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, marks the first time in 35 years that a Somali head of state has traveled on a domestic carrier for an official trip.
The President’s plane, operated by Premier Airlines with the registration number 60-PAA, was filmed taxiing and parking at Aden Adde International Airport, where it was met with a welcoming reception.
This symbolic act highlights a significant milestone in the country’s state-building process and a new era of national pride. It reflects the progress in Somalia’s aviation sector and the government’s commitment to revitalizing key national institutions. The use of a Somali aircraft for presidential travel underscores the growing confidence in Somalia’s own capabilities and its journey towards full sovereignty.
The momentous occasion comes as the country continues to rebuild and reassert itself on the international stage. It is a powerful message of progress and a nod to the resilience of the Somali people. The event is seen as a source of national pride and a testament to the country’s recovery and development.