Algeria reopens airspace to Mali after months of diplomatic tensions
Algeria has reopened its national airspace to all flights to and from Mali, with the decision taking effect on Friday, according to Algerian state media.
The move restores air travel between the two countries after reciprocal airspace closures imposed in April 2025 following a diplomatic dispute.
The row began after Algeria claimed its military had shot down a Malian surveillance drone that it said had entered Algerian airspace. Mali rejected the allegation, insisting the drone had crashed within its own territory.
In a further sign of improving relations, Algerian President Abdelmadjid Tebboune also ordered the return of the country’s ambassador to Bamako, Mali’s capital, early on Saturday.
Algeria had recalled its ambassador for consultations in April last year amid escalating diplomatic tensions between the two neighbouring countries.
About The Author
