A decision by a major defense contractor to withdraw support for a commercial aircraft model has effectively grounded humanitarian flights delivering food aid to several African nations facing severe hunger crises.
The termination of airworthiness certification for the Advanced Turbo-Prop (ATP) aircraft has halted operations for a fleet previously dedicated to transporting supplies. These planes were considered vital for reaching remote areas with short airstrips in countries like South Sudan, Somalia, and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).
The aircraft operator, a Nairobi-based firm, has ceased its Kenyan operations and is pursuing legal action, alleging it was given assurances of continued support. The company claims the sudden grounding has rendered its fleet inoperable and has severed a critical supply line.
This development comes at a time of dire need. According to United Nations assessments, millions across the affected regions are experiencing crisis-level hunger. In Somalia alone, nearly five million people face acute food insecurity, while in the DRC, a record number of individuals are grappling with hunger driven by conflict and displacement.
The now-grounded aircraft were capable of carrying over eight tonnes of cargo, with past deliveries amounting to thousands of tonnes of food. Aid organizations estimate that a single tonne of supplies can sustain hundreds of people for a day.
The defense contractor, which recently reported significant profits, has stated the move to surrender the aircraft’s type certificate is permanent. The firm has declined to comment on the potential litigation.
