The Namibia Civil Aviation Authority has successfully improved the country's aviation safety oversight rating to 72.6% from 57.5% after a comprehensive audit by the International Civil Aviation Organisation in 2024. This significant improvement reflects the country's enhanced compliance with international aviation safety standards and recommended practices. The audit, conducted under the ICAO Universal Safety Oversight Audit Programme Continuous Monitoring Approach, evaluated various aspects of Namibia's aviation safety framework.
According to the ministry of works and transport's annual performance report, Namibia recorded its strongest performance in technical guidance, tools, and safety information, achieving an impressive 92.66%. The legislation category also scored a high 90.5%. The report further states that no significant safety concerns were identified during the audit, indicating a robust safety oversight system in place. However, the NCAA continues to implement its Corrective Action Plan to address outstanding areas.
The NCAA's Corrective Action Plan focuses on several key areas, including the deployment of qualified technical personnel, enhancing safety surveillance obligations, and resolving identified safety issues. These efforts aim to further strengthen Namibia's aviation safety framework and ensure sustained compliance with international standards. The ministry has set an ambitious target of 77% compliance with ICAO standards and recommended practices, indicating a commitment to continuous improvement.
In addition to safety oversight, the ministry is also focusing on upgrading aviation infrastructure across the country. At Eenhana Aerodrome, progress on maintenance works, including fencing, bush clearing, and painting runway and apron markings, has reached 20%, although this falls short of the 65% target. In contrast, the Impalila Island Aerodrome project has made significant progress, with the completion of the inception and preliminary design report reaching 75%, matching the target for upgrading aviation infrastructure.
Construction activities at Opuwo Aerodrome are also underway, with works reported to be 55% complete against a target of 75%. The project includes critical infrastructure such as a 4.6-kilometre access road, a security fence, a guard house, and restrooms. The procurement process for a contractor to undertake the construction has commenced, according to the report. These infrastructure upgrades are essential for enhancing the safety and efficiency of Namibia's aviation network.
The ministry is also reviewing the Civil Aviation Act of 2016 to ensure that Namibia's civil aviation legislation remains effective and aligned with international obligations and applicable standards. The NCAA's Legal Section is responsible for the review and proposed amendments. A target of 62% for completion of the review has been set, reflecting the importance of this legislative update. This review is crucial for maintaining a robust regulatory framework that supports the growth of the aviation sector.
Emergency preparedness and response are another area of focus for the ministry, with a target of 20% set for strengthening coordination and emergency response arrangements. Authorities are identifying potential hazards and consulting key stakeholders to enhance preparedness. Efforts are also underway to fill critical vacancies, including the positions of deputy director of investigations and assistant aircraft accident investigator, to strengthen the capacity to investigate aviation accidents and incidents. Engagements with major airlines such as Turkish Airlines, Qatar Airways, and Ethiopian Airlines are ongoing, indicating a collaborative approach to aviation safety and development.
Key points
- Namibia's aviation safety rating improves to 72.6% following a 2024 ICAO audit.
- The country aims to achieve 77% compliance with ICAO standards and recommended practices.
- Aviation infrastructure upgrades are underway at several aerodromes, including Eenhana, Impalila Island, and Opuwo.
