International Airlines Resume Flights To Aden As Yemen Strengthens Aviation Sector

Yemen's aviation sector is seeing renewed activity, with international airlines such as African Express Airways, Air Djibouti, and Royal Jordanian now operating flights to Aden. Dr. Abdul Salam Saleh Humaid, Yemen’s Minister of Transport, shared these developments. He also outlined plans to enhance the country's aviation fleet by acquiring new aircraft by the end of 2025.

The United Arab Emirates has played a crucial role in revitalising Yemen's civil aviation sector. Their efforts have focused on rehabilitating airports in liberated areas, which has facilitated the reopening and normal operation of several airports. This support was highlighted by Dr. Humaid during a statement to the Emirates News Agency (WAM) at the ICAO Global Implementation Support Symposium 2025.

Dr. Humaid emphasised that UAE assistance is pivotal in reviving Yemen’s aviation industry. The Yemeni government currently operates three aircraft but plans to add a fourth to its fleet in April. There are also directives to expand the fleet further to accommodate passenger needs effectively.

Three private investment companies are in the qualification phase to collaborate with Yemenia Airways, the national carrier. This partnership aims to boost Yemen's aviation sector significantly. The minister noted that these companies will work alongside Yemenia Airways to enhance services and operations within the country.

The Yemeni government is committed to reopening domestic airports and has initiated a strategic aircraft maintenance project. This initiative aims to strengthen the aviation sector's resilience against future challenges and improve overall service quality.

Operational Airports and Future Plans

Currently, six airports are operational in liberated areas: Aden Airport, Seiyun Airport, Riyan Airport in Hadramout, Socotra Airport, and Ataq Airport. Mocha Airport on the western coast is expected to become operational soon, further expanding Yemen's airport network.

The minister reiterated Yemen's dedication to developing its national airline into an efficient and effective entity soon. These efforts are part of a broader strategy to ensure that Yemen’s aviation sector reaches its full potential.

With inputs from WAM