Turkish Airlines and Qatar Airways have suspended all flights to and from Aden Adde International Airport (MGQ) following a security alert issued by the U.S. Embassy in Somalia. The warning, released on March 4, 2025, cited credible intelligence of a “potential imminent attack” targeting multiple locations, including the airport.
The U.S. Embassy cautioned that terrorist groups in Somalia continue to plan attacks involving car bombs, suicide bombers, and mortar fire. These attacks could target high-traffic areas such as airports, seaports, government buildings, hotels, and shopping centers. As a precautionary measure, all U.S. Embassy staff movements in Mogadishu have been suspended until further notice.
“The U.S. Embassy in Somalia reminds U.S. citizens that terrorists continue to plot kidnappings, bombings, and other attacks in Somalia,” the alert stated. The warning emphasized that attacks could occur with little or no notice, posing significant risks to both civilians and foreign nationals.
Following the embassy’s advisory, both Turkish Airlines and Qatar Airways—two of the few international carriers operating in Somalia—immediately halted flights to Mogadishu. It remains unclear when flights will resume, with both airlines expected to reassess the situation based on evolving security conditions.
The travel suspension underscores ongoing security concerns in Somalia, where militant groups such as Al-Shabaab continue to carry out attacks against government and civilian targets. Travelers are advised to monitor official updates and exercise extreme caution if traveling to or within the region.
