Yemen's Riyan Airport resumes operations with first flight after years of closure

Riyan International Airport in Yemen's eastern Hadhramaut province has resumed operations, welcoming its first commercial flight in years on Sunday. The domestic service from Aden marks a critical milestone in efforts to restore air travel and connectivity within the war-torn country, signaling a potential return to normalcy for a key regional hub.

Reopening After Prolonged Inactivity

According to Yemeni state media, the airport in the coastal city of Mukalla received a flight from Aden International Airport, officially restarting domestic air traffic. The facility had been largely non-operational since 2015 due to Yemen's protracted civil war, which severely disrupted the national aviation sector. Authorities cited the completion of necessary technical and safety rehabilitation work as enabling the reopening.

Strategic and Economic Significance

Officials anticipate the airport's return to service will significantly ease travel for residents and stimulate both commercial and humanitarian movement. The Yemeni Civil Aviation Authority views this as part of a broader plan to rehabilitate key airports. Governor of Hadhramaut Ahmed Salem al-Khanbashi noted that both Riyan and Seiyun airports had previously been stripped of equipment during periods of instability, underscoring the challenge of restoration.

Context of Recent Regional Security

The reopening follows recent shifts in territorial control. Earlier this month, Yemeni government forces recaptured the vast eastern regions of Hadhramaut and Al-Mahra from fighters affiliated with the Southern Transitional Council (STC). These two provinces together constitute nearly half of Yemen's territory. The restoration of state authority in these strategic areas has created conditions allowing for the revival of critical infrastructure like Riyan Airport, with hopes pinned on its future role in international travel.