Zambia’s aviation industry has reached a significant milestone, clearing an intensive audit conducted by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO).
This audit, a key evaluation of a country’s adherence to international aviation safety standards, saw Zambia achieve an impressive 73.48% successful implementation rate.
This result surpasses both the global average of 69.4% and the East and Southern Africa regional average of 60.71%, highlighting Zambia’s efforts to strengthen its aviation sector and marking substantial progress compared to previous audits.
Zambia’s Minister of Transport and Logistics, Frank Tayali, announced the preliminary findings, celebrating the outcome as evidence of the substantial reforms implemented within the country’s aviation sector.
He pointed out that the current score is a remarkable improvement over Zambia’s 2009 audit result, where the country scored just 35.35%. The poor performance in 2009 led to severe consequences, including a ban on Zambian aircraft from certain international airspaces.
Tayali highlighted this comparison to underscore the tremendous progress made in aviation safety and regulatory compliance.
Minister Tayali expressed deep appreciation for the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) and its board for their dedicated efforts in preparing for the audit.
He stressed that meticulous planning and preparation were key to avoiding the pitfalls of the past. He also noted that this successful audit signals Zambia’s growing ambition to become a leading transport and logistics hub in Southern Africa.
According to Tayali, this achievement brings Zambia closer to realizing its vision of playing a prominent role in regional and global logistics networks.
The audit, conducted by a team from ICAO’s headquarters in Montreal, Canada, evaluated several areas of Zambia’s aviation sector, including infrastructure, operational systems, regulatory frameworks, and safety procedures.
With an effective implementation rate of 73.48%, Zambia has demonstrated compliance with stringent international safety standards, dispelling earlier concerns and restoring confidence among stakeholders.
This positive outcome is expected to elevate Zambia’s standing in the global aviation community and enhance its appeal to multinational airlines.
Minister Tayali assured that the Zambian government remains committed to further enhancing the operational capabilities of its aviation industry.
He hinted at the possibility of increased collaboration with international airlines, as Zambia’s improved safety record positions it as a more attractive destination.
Due to safety concerns, many airlines had previously avoided Zambia, but the recent audit success could pave the way for more partnerships and cooperation.
This audit was only the second comprehensive review of Zambia’s aviation sector by ICAO since 2009. It was part of ICAO’s Universal Safety Oversight Audit Programme (USOAP), conducted under the organization’s continuous monitoring approach.
This approach ensures ongoing compliance with international standards across member states. Zambia’s marked improvement is seen as a critical step in the country’s broader strategy to enhance its infrastructure and expand its role in the global logistics network.
With these strengthened safety and compliance measures, stakeholders expect increased investment and sustained economic growth in Zambia’s aviation sector.
