Sudan Airways to resume Khartoum flights as Qatar Airways audits Port Sudan

May 7, 2026 (KHARTOUM) – Sudan Airways announced on Thursday it will resume flights between Port Sudan and Khartoum starting Saturday, as Qatar Airways began technical and security assessments at Port Sudan International Airport ahead of its own return to the country.

The resumption comes days after drone attacks targeted Khartoum airport and surrounding areas, as well as military sites in Khartoum North and Omdurman.

In a notice to travel agencies, Sudan Airways confirmed the restart of the Port Sudan-Khartoum route. The national carrier also announced on its Facebook page that direct flights to Medina to transport Sudanese pilgrims will begin on May 17, though it did not specify the departure city.

Travel agents told Sudan Tribune they expect pilgrims from Khartoum State to be transported via Khartoum airport, following the lead of Red Sea and Kassala states, which have already begun flights through local airports.

Prime Minister Kamil Idriss met with civil aviation and airport officials on Thursday to review the restoration of normal operations at Khartoum International Airport.

According to the cabinet’s media office, Idriss was briefed on efforts to reopen airspace and ensure the airport is fully prepared to handle domestic and international traffic.

Meanwhile, Qatar Airways conducted a security and operational audit at Port Sudan International Airport over the past few days. The audit is a standard technical requirement for resuming international service following a suspension.

Sources told Sudan Tribune the audit focused on safety systems, passenger and aircraft security procedures, and the readiness of ground handling services.

Aviation experts view Qatar Airways’ move as a positive sign that regional and international carriers are reassessing the Sudanese operating environment with an eye toward returning to the skies.