Ataq (South24 Center)

Ataq International Airport in Shabwa governorate witnessed the arrival of the first Yemenia Airways civilian flight from Aden International Airport on Sunday (September 14), following a hiatus exceeding 10 years.

A South24 Center correspondent reported that Flight 401 departed Aden International Airport at 10:00 AM local time and arrived in Ataq at 10:40 AM. The flight was received by Shabwa's governor and numerous local officials.

The inauguration marks the resumption of civilian flights to Ataq since February 2015, when air operations ceased due to the escalating Yemeni war, and the consequent security and administrative challenges.

Ataq International Airport Director Salem Lamlis stated in a press declaration that "this step represents the resumption of air traffic to the governorate”, adding that initially one biweekly flight has been scheduled, and that more flights will be added subsequently to meet traveler demand.

This development coincides with the relative stabilization of Shabwa's security situation, which has given rise to hopes among the people that renewed air connectivity will stimulate economic and commercial activity in the governorate.

The resumption of flights comes close on the heels of another promising development – the August 28 inauguration of a 53-megawatt solar power station—Emirati-supported—in Shabwa, which has significantly improved the living conditions in the governorate that had been enduring 18-hour daily blackouts.

These parallel advancements -- in connectivity and energy -- reflect the gradual improvements in infrastructure in Shabwa, holding out the promise of unlocking broader economic opportunities in the future, and enhancing Shabwa's positioning for wooing domestic and foreign investment.