Aden: Yemenia Airways has resumed its flight operations from Aden International Airport following a three-day suspension, as announced by the Transport Ministry. The recommencement of flights was facilitated by the directives of Transport Minister Abdul Salam Saleh Humaid and the airline's board chairman, Nasser Mahmoud.
According to Anadolu Agency, the restoration of flight services was confirmed by Yemenia's deputy general manager for commercial affairs, Mohsen Haidara. Initially, the flights will operate from Aden, covering four destinations: Riyadh, Amman, Cairo, and Jeddah. This decision follows intensive efforts and discussions led by the transport minister in collaboration with the airline's chairman and Saudi Arabian counterparts, resulting in the approval to resume operations.
The suspension of operations at Aden airport, the main air gateway for areas outside Houthi control in Yemen, was announced on Thursday by the Southern Transitional Council (STC). This airport facilitates flights to key destinations, including Saudi Arabia, Egypt, and Jordan. At the time, Aden Al-Mustaqilla, a channel linked with the STC, claimed that Saudi Arabia had halted both domestic and international flights to and from the airport. However, Yemen's internationally recognized government denied these claims, asserting that the airport remained operational.
The situation in Yemen has intensified since Tuesday, following the STC forces' control over Hadhramaut and Al-Mahra in early December. These provinces, which constitute nearly half of Yemen's territory, share borders with Saudi Arabia. Saudi Arabia has accused the United Arab Emirates (UAE) of encouraging the STC forces to engage in military actions along its southern border in these provinces, an allegation that Abu Dhabi has denied.
The STC argues that successive Yemeni governments have politically and economically marginalized the southern regions and advocates for secession. Conversely, Yemeni authorities refute this claim and emphasize their dedication to maintaining the country's unity.