Mogadishui(Mogadishu24)-The Somali Civil Aviation Authority (SCAA) has issued a new directive prohibiting the operation of drones within a 5-nautical-mile radius of Aden Abdulle International Airport (HCMM).

The restrictions, which came into effect on Sunday, are outlined in a Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) issued by the authority.

The directive, identified as NOTAM HCMM: A0123/2024, specifies that no Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) operations are allowed within the restricted area unless explicitly authorized by the SCAA.

The restriction applies to both IFR (Instrument Flight Rules) and VFR (Visual Flight Rules) flight operations, reinforcing security measures around the airport.

The SCAA emphasized the importance of adhering to these regulations to ensure the safety and security of flights operating in and out of Aden Abdulle International Airport. The authority further noted that any unauthorized drone activity in the area would be subject to legal action.

Al-Shabaab carried out mortar attacks in and around the airport several times, in particular, Halane which hosts headquarters for the African Union Mission in Somalia(ATMIS) and United Nations during this and past years.