Special Federal Aviation Regulation No. 107—Prohibition Against Certain Flights in the Territory and Airspace of Somalia

This regulation prohibits most flights below Flight Level 260 (approximately 26,000 feet) in Somali territory and airspace due to safety concerns. It applies to U.S. air carriers, commercial operators, pilots exercising FAA certificates, and operators of U.S.-registered aircraft.

Permitted operations below FL260 include:

• Overflights at or above FL260 with Somali approval
• Departures from and arrivals into Djibouti's Ambouli International Airport that briefly enter Somali airspace overwater during climb or descent, when following published procedures or ATC instructions with Djibouti's approval
• Flights under U.S. government contract with FAA approval or exemption
• Emergency situations (with post-flight reporting required for most operators)

The practical impact: U.S. pilots and operators must stay at high altitude when overflying Somalia or avoid the airspace entirely, except for the specific exceptions listed. This SFAR remains effective until January 7, 2027.

*This is a plain-English summary for study only. The official 14 CFR text on this page is controlling — always read the current regulation and consult a CFI.*