Amanze Chinonye
A StarSky Aviation Fokker 50 turboprop overran the runway at Aden Adde International Airport on Tuesday and came to rest on the shoreline, but all 55 passengers and crew escaped unharmed, officials confirmed.
The aircraft, operating a scheduled domestic flight to Galkayo, experienced technical difficulties shortly after take-off. Authorities said the plane was cleared for an emergency landing, but during touchdown it veered off the runway, went over a cliff, and settled on the sandy beach adjoining the airport perimeter.
“Rescue teams quickly attended the scene, and all passengers and crew were evacuated without serious injuries,” an airport official told Reuters. Images from the site showed the aircraft resting on the shoreline, highlighting the proximity of Mogadishu’s runway to the Indian Ocean coast.
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The Somali Civil Aviation Authority has launched a formal investigation into the incident, which authorities said could have been caused by a technical or mechanical failure. Airport operations were temporarily disrupted but have since resumed.
A passenger, speaking to media after safely leaving the plane, joked, “Is this baggage claim or low tide?” capturing the mixture of shock and relief felt by those on board.
Starsky Aviation, a Somali-owned carrier and six-time award-winning airline, operates passenger, cargo, and charter flights, as well as Hajj and Umrah packages. The company said all emergency protocols were followed during the evacuation, turning a potential disaster into a “remarkable survival story.”
Emergency crews ensured the area was secured and assisted passengers, all of whom walked away from the incident unharmed. Officials said investigations would focus on the aircraft’s technical performance during take-off and landing.
Amanze Chinonye is a Staff Correspondent at Prime Business Africa, a rising star in the literary world, weaving captivating stories that transport readers to the vibrant landscapes of Nigeria and the rest of Africa. With a unique voice that blends with the newspaper's tradition and style, Chinonye's writing is a masterful exploration of the human condition, delving into themes of identity, culture, and social justice. Through her words, Chinonye paints vivid portraits of everyday African life, from the bustling markets of Nigeria's Lagos to the quiet villages of South Africa's countryside . With a keen eye for detail and a deep understanding of the complexities of Nigerian society, Chinonye's writing is both a testament to the country's rich cultural heritage and a powerful call to action for a brighter future. As a writer, Chinonye is a true storyteller, using her dexterity to educate, inspire, and uplift readers around the world.
