In a significant stride towards enhancing aviation safety standards, a high-level delegation from the Sierra Leone Civil Aviation Authority (SLCAA) engaged in fruitful discussions with the European Commission for Mobility and Air Transport in Brussels on Thursday, April 25th, 2024.
Led by the Director General, Madam Musayeroh Barrie, the SLCAA delegation was warmly received by the Chairman of the EU Safety Committee, Peter Bombay. Commending SLCAA’s leadership for their proactive efforts in transforming the aviation industry, Chairman Bombay reminisced about his prior engagement with Madam Barrie in Abuja, Nigeria in 2023, emphasizing her profound impact on him.
Expressing confidence in Madam Barrie’s leadership and SLCAA’s progress under her tenure, Chairman Bombay reaffirmed the EU Safety Commission’s commitment to supporting Sierra Leone’s civil aviation industry. He lauded SLCAA’s dedication to capacity building and highlighted the need for further strengthening, particularly in the Flight Safety Standards department.
In response, Madam Musayeroh Barrie assured the EU Safety Commission of SLCAA’s resolve to bolster its technical capabilities, with the support of the Italian Civil Aviation Authority (ENAC). She underscored SLCAA’s determination to excel in aircraft registration and Air Operator Certificate issuance, crucial steps towards enhancing safety and security standards.
Of significant importance was the discussion regarding Sierra Leone’s inclusion on the EU Safety Commission’s blacklist since July 28th, 2008, due to concerns over inadequate safety and oversight standards. This designation has ramifications for ticket costs, as airlines face heightened insurance premiums when operating in blacklisted countries.
Following the successful technical meeting, both parties agreed upon a comprehensive roadmap aimed at addressing the outlined concerns and advancing Sierra Leone’s aviation safety credentials. The EU Safety Commission expressed readiness to dispatch a delegation to assess Sierra Leone’s progress, paving the way for potential removal from the blacklist.
Sierra Leone’s concerted efforts towards improving aviation safety not only signify a positive trajectory for its aviation sector but also hold the promise of economic benefits through enhanced connectivity and reduced operational costs for airlines.