Ethiopian Forces Reclaim Mekelle Airport from Tigrayan Fighters

Ethiopian federal forces retake Mekelle airport, reversing Tigrayan fighters' control and raising concerns over regional stability.

Editorial Desk

October 4, 2026 One Min Read

POLICY WIRE — Kampala, Uganda — Ethiopian federal forces have regained control of Mekelle airport, the capital of the northern Tigray region, according to local residents who spoke with The Associated Press. This marks a reversal of a previous takeover by Tigrayan fighters that led to the suspension of commercial flights last month.

The exact timing of the recapture of Alula Aba Nega Airport remains unclear, as those providing the information chose to remain anonymous due to fears of retribution. Severe disruptions in internet and cellphone networks have complicated efforts to verify details about the airport’s change in control, including whether any fighting occurred there.

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A senior Ethiopian military official confirmed the federal forces’ control of the airport but neither the Ethiopian government nor the Tigray People’s Liberation Front had issued an official statement on the incident. The situation in Mekelle remains uncertain, with residents expressing fears of looting amid the instability.

Reporting by Policy-Wire (PW)

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