8 June 2026

Zambia Classifies Air Traffic Control and Aviation Security as Essential Services

Zambia has formally classified air traffic control services and civil aviation security as essential services, following the gazetting of Statutory Instrument No. 47 of 2026.

Photo credit © African Pilot // Craig Dean

Why this article matters
The classification of air traffic control and civil aviation security as essential services brings these aviation functions within Zambia’s formal essential services framework. This is intended to ensure that critical services continue during industrial disputes or circumstances requiring minimum service levels, while still recognising workers’ rights under the Industrial and Labour Relations Act.

The declaration is especially relevant during emergency conditions, including pandemics, natural disasters or national crises, where uninterrupted air traffic control and aviation security services are necessary for the movement of people, goods and essential support. It also places obligations on employers in affected sectors to identify designated essential service employees and issue Essential Service Certificates in accordance with the law.

Zambia’s Ministry of Labour and Social Security has confirmed that air traffic control services and civil aviation security have been formally designated as essential services following the gazetting of Statutory Instrument No. 47 of 2026.

The declaration also applies to electoral services provided by employees of the Electoral Commission of Zambia, toll point and weighbridge operations, and the supply and distribution of petroleum services. The Statutory Instrument, cited as the Industrial and Labour Relations (Essential Service) (Declaration) Order, 2026, was issued under Section 107(10)(g) of the Industrial and Labour Relations Act, Cap. 269, following Cabinet approval on 14 May 2026.

The declaration is intended to protect workers’ rights while ensuring the uninterrupted delivery of critical services needed to maintain economic stability and basic societal functions, particularly during emergencies such as pandemics, natural disasters or national crises. It is also aimed at supporting the movement of goods and services, the collection of toll fees for maintenance, the protection of road infrastructure, improved road safety, and the management of free, fair and credible elections.

According to the Ministry, the decision followed consultations with social partners through the Tripartite Consultative Labour Council and recognises the role these workers play in safeguarding national stability, democratic governance and the continued functioning of the economy.

Employers operating in the affected sectors are required to identify employees performing essential service functions and issue them with Essential Service Certificates in line with the law. These certificates will confirm their status and support the uninterrupted delivery of minimum service levels during industrial disputes or other circumstances requiring continuity of operations.

Disputes involving essential services are to be referred to the Industrial Relations Court for speedy resolution, while affected employees have been encouraged to familiarise themselves with their rights and responsibilities under the Industrial and Labour Relations Act.