Khartoum, Sudan – For only the second time since Sudan’s civil war erupted nearly three years ago, a commercial flight has successfully landed at Khartoum International Airport, marking a symbolic step toward normalcy in the war-torn capital.
The domestic flight, operated by the national flag carrier SUDANAIR, departed from Port Sudan on Sunday morning and touched down in Khartoum, a city that has endured years of violence, displacement, and destruction.
Symbol of Recovery
The reopening of the airport is being hailed as a crucial milestone in the government’s efforts to restore stability and rebuild confidence among citizens.
“I have mixed feelings of joy and immense happiness because the airport is open, and with that, the country and the capital are back,” said Musab Suwar Al-Dhahab, a Sudanese citizen preparing to board the return flight to Port Sudan. “God willing, we will recover and all the effects of the war will disappear.”
Past Disruptions
In October 2025, a commercial flight’s landing in Khartoum was disrupted by drones launched by the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF), underscoring the fragile security situation.
This time, however, the flight was received with celebration.
“Today we are welcoming the Sudan Airways plane, and we are very happy and proud to receive this aircraft since the outbreak of the war,” said Salma Idris, an employee at the aviation academy. “We wish them continued success and express our feelings of joy and happiness at their arrival.”
Airport Damage and Recovery
Khartoum’s airport suffered extensive damage when fighting between the Sudanese Armed Forces and the RSF escalated in April 2023. The army eventually recaptured the capital last year, paving the way for gradual restoration of key infrastructure.
Humanitarian Toll
The civil war has killed tens of thousands of people and displaced millions, fueling disease outbreaks and pushing parts of the country to the brink of famine. The reopening of the airport offers a glimmer of hope, but the humanitarian crisis remains dire.
Conclusion
The landing of SUDANAIR’s flight in Khartoum is more than a logistical achievement it is a powerful symbol of resilience for a nation struggling to heal. While challenges remain, the reopening of the airport signals a step toward reconnecting Sudan’s capital with the rest of the country and restoring a sense of normalcy for its citizens.
