Emergency Landing for Somali Flight After Technical Issue, All 55 Onboard Safe

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Mogadishu: A passenger aircraft in Somalia has landed in shallow water near the Indian Ocean after suffering a technical problem shortly after departure, with all 55 people on board escaping unharmed, authorities said. The flight, operated by Starsky Aviation, was en route from Mogadishu when the issue was reported, prompting an immediate return request to the city’s main airport.

The Fokker 50 turboprop touched down at Aden Abdulle International Airport but failed to stop on the runway. It continued past the tarmac and came to rest in shallow coastal waters close to the airport perimeter.

Somalia’s Civil Aviation Authority confirmed that there were no fatalities or serious injuries among the 50 passengers and five crew members aboard. Emergency responders, including local forces and international support teams, were deployed and helped evacuate people from the scene safely.

Starsky Aviation issued a statement praising the pilot for his “swift and calm” actions that officials said were pivotal in safeguarding everyone on the flight. The carrier and aviation authorities have launched an investigation to determine the cause of the technical fault that led to the emergency landing.

Video and images circulating on social media showed passengers walking away from the aircraft along the shoreline, some carrying their belongings, as rescue crews secured the area. The transport minister of Somalia was also present at the site of the incident, overseeing the response.

Officials stressed that while the aircraft sustained damage, the successful evacuation with no serious harm underscored the effectiveness of the pilot’s response and the coordination of emergency services. A formal inquiry into maintenance, mechanical systems and operational procedures is now underway.

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