Discussions on air navigation service reform in line with national priorities
The Sierra Leone Airports Authority (SLAA) has presented its FY2027 budget to the Ministry of Finance under the national theme “Building Resilience to Create Jobs.” The General Manager emphasised that the Authority’s priorities for 2027 will focus on strengthening aviation workforce capacity through the establishment of an Approved Training Organisation (ATO), advancing the implementation of Safety Management Systems, and modernising air navigation infrastructure to position Freetown International Airport as a competitive regional hub.
In his remarks, the General Manager, Jack D.K. Massaquoi, described the ATO as a landmark initiative in Sierra Leone’s aviation reform agenda. He further announced plans to establish partnerships with universities to integrate aviation curriculum into higher education. This collaboration will create a sustainable pipeline of skilled professionals, equipping the sector with expertise that meets international benchmarks and supports long-term growth.
Safety and efficiency form another cornerstone of the FY2027 budget as he confirmed full implementation of performance-based navigation (PBN) and the calibration of DVOR and ILS navigation aids to strengthen compliance.
In closing, the General Manager acknowledged the challenge of rising operational costs but reaffirmed that reforms in air navigation services will strengthen resilience and deliver lasting transformation across Sierra Leone’s aviation sector.
