First international flight lands at Khartoum airport since start of war
April 28, 2026 (KHARTOUM) – The first direct international commercial flight in three years landed at Khartoum International Airport on Tuesday, carrying 300 Sudanese citizens returning from Kuwait.
The Kuwait Airways flight marks a significant step toward restoring global air traffic to the capital. The airport had been out of service since the outbreak of conflict in mid-April 2023, when it was targeted by the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), causing extensive damage to terminals and grounded aircraft.
Acting Airport Director Hassan al-Hadi said the arrival of the flight from Kuwait is a milestone in the resumption of international aviation. He confirmed the facility is ready to handle global traffic after meeting safety requirements and securing the necessary permits.
Abdul Rahman Sayed Ahmed Zein al-Abidin, Secretary-General of the Secretariat for Sudanese Working Abroad, said the landing underscores the government’s efforts to facilitate the return of its citizens. He added that the move paves the way for a regular flight path between Khartoum and Kuwait, which would bolster Sudanese exports, particularly agricultural and livestock products.
Ambassador Bilal Qasim Allah of the Foreign Ministry’s consular department praised Kuwait for its supportive stance. He noted that the return of citizens reflects deepening bilateral ties and coordinated efforts between the Sudanese embassy in Kuwait and local reception committees.
Tayeb Saad al-Din, Khartoum State Minister of Culture and Information, said the arrival follows a recent influx of returnees, including over 30 buses from Egypt. He attributed the trend to improving basic services and stability in the capital’s education and health sectors.
Sudan’s national carrier, Sudanair, conducted its first domestic flight from Port Sudan to Khartoum in early February. This followed an October decision by the Sudanese Airports Company to reopen the facility for domestic use after rehabilitation work.
The airport’s reopening has faced setbacks, including a drone attack by the RSF late last year that damaged recently repaired infrastructure. Most regional and international carriers have operated out of Port Sudan since the conflict began, following the relocation of air navigation services to the eastern coastal city.