Somaliland bans airline tickets issued via Somalia’s BSP system

Somaliland’s Ministry of Civil Aviation and Airports Development has ordered an immediate halt to the acceptance of airline tickets issued through Somalia’s Billing and Settlement Plan (BSP) for departures from Hargeisa Egal International Airport and Berbera International Airport.

The directive applies to both new and previously purchased tickets, including return journeys. To comply, passengers must obtain tickets through authorized channels such as official airline websites, mobile applications, airline ticket offices, or travel agents licensed by Somaliland’s Department of Civil Aviation Regulation and Air Transport.

Airlines have been instructed to review existing bookings, establish ticket-verification procedures, and notify affected passengers. While agencies must regularize their licensing status by October 31, 2026, the ministry stated that from November 1, 2026, airlines may only maintain distribution arrangements with agents meeting Somaliland’s specific authorization requirements.