Namibia’s aviation safety rating improves to 72.6%

**Staff Writer **

The Namibia Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has improved the country’s aviation safety oversight rating from 57.5% to 72.6% following a 2024 International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) audit, according to the ministry of works and transport’s annual performance report.

The improvement follows the ICAO Universal Safety Oversight Audit Programme Continuous Monitoring Approach (USOAP CMA) audit, which assessed Namibia’s compliance with international aviation safety standards and recommended practices.

The report states that Namibia recorded its strongest performance in technical guidance, tools and safety information, which achieved 92.66%, while legislation scored 90.5%. No significant safety concerns were identified during the audit.

However, the NCAA is continuing to implement its Corrective Action Plan, with outstanding work focusing on qualified technical personnel, safety surveillance obligations and resolving identified safety issues.

The ministry has set a target of 77% compliance with ICAO standards and recommended practices.

On aviation infrastructure, progress at Eenhana Aerodrome remains below the ministry’s target. The maintenance works, which include fencing, bush clearing and painting runway and apron markings, as well as the wind circle, achieved 20% against a target of 65%.

At Impalila Island Aerodrome, the completion of the inception and preliminary design report reached 75%, matching the target for upgrading aviation infrastructure.

Meanwhile, construction-related activities at Opuwo Aerodrome are progressing, with works reported to be 55% complete against a target of 75%.

The first phase of the project includes a 4.6-kilometre access road, a security fence, a guard house and restrooms. Procurement for a contractor to undertake the construction has commenced, according to the report.

The ministry is also reviewing the Civil Aviation Act of 2016, with the NCAA’s Legal Section responsible for the review and proposed amendments.

The review is intended to ensure that Namibia’s civil aviation legislation remains effective, responds to developments in the aviation sector and aligns with the country’s international obligations and applicable standards.

The ministry has set a target of 62% for completion of the review.

Emergency preparedness is another area of focus, with a target of 20%. The report states that authorities are identifying potential hazards and consulting key stakeholders to strengthen coordination and emergency response arrangements.

Efforts are also under way to fill key vacancies, including the positions of deputy director of investigations and assistant aircraft accident investigator, to strengthen the capacity to investigate aviation accidents and incidents.

The report further notes that engagements with Turkish Airlines, Qatar Airways and Ethiopian Airlines are ongoing.