Sudan opens new air routes in push to fully restore airspace

December 6, 2025 (KHARTOUM) – The Sudanese Civil Aviation Authority (SCAA) announced on Saturday the opening of two new air routes, a step towards fully restoring airspace closed since the conflict began in 2023.

Sudan shut its airspace after war erupted in April 2023, later partially reopening skies over eastern states. Port Sudan Airport has since remained the sole hub for international flights.

The SCAA said in a statement it had issued a Notice to Air Missions (NOTAM) for the new routes after meeting International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) standards.

The paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) attacked Khartoum Airport in the opening hours of the war. The facility, which houses the aviation authority and air navigation control centre, sits near the army headquarters.

Efforts to resume flights at Khartoum Airport were stalled in October when drone strikes hit the facility shortly after rehabilitation work had been completed.

The authority said the new routes would support international navigation and encourage airlines to resume operations across Sudanese airspace.