By Amin Kef (Ranger)
Sierra Leone has embarked on a nationwide calibration of Navigational Aids (NavAIDs), a critical step aimed at strengthening aviation safety, operational efficiency and compliance with international standards.
The exercise, which is being undertaken at key aviation facilities including Freetown International Airport, is designed to ensure that all ground-based navigation systems function with optimal accuracy and reliability. Those systems are essential for safe aircraft landing, takeoff and en-route navigation, particularly under adverse weather conditions.
Speaking on the significance of the initiative, Sierra Leone Civil Aviation Authority (SLCAA) Director General, Musayeroh Barrie, emphasized that safety remains the Authority’s foremost priority. She noted that the calibration of navigational aids is a fundamental requirement in global aviation, ensuring that pilots operating in and out of Sierra Leone can depend on precise and reliable navigation systems at all times.
The Director General further highlighted that the exercise reflects SLCAA’s ongoing commitment to strengthening aviation infrastructure, enhancing regulatory oversight and positioning Sierra Leone as a safe, secure and reliable destination within the global aviation network.
The calibration process is being executed by the Nigeria Airspace Management Agency (NAMA), under the operational responsibility of the Sierra Leone Airports Authority, which serves as the country’s Air Navigation Service Provider. As the national aviation regulator, SLCAA is providing oversight and coordination, ensuring that the exercise adheres strictly to both national regulations and international aviation safety requirements.
SLCAA also played a key facilitative role in the signing of the Memorandum of Understanding between SLAA and NAMA, paving the way for the successful implementation of the calibration programme.
At Freetown International Airport, the Sierra Leone Airports Authority commenced a dedicated $80,000 calibration project running from April 20 to April 26, 2026. The initiative forms part of broader efforts to enhance safety and operational readiness ahead of the forthcoming ECOWAS Summit scheduled for June 2026.
General Manager of SLAA, Jack D.K Massaquoi, underscored that the project represents significant progress in advancing the aviation sector under the leadership of the Minister of Transport and Aviation, Alhaji Fanday Turay. He noted that the calibration exercise serves not only as a technical undertaking but also as a strategic assurance of Sierra Leone’s preparedness to host regional leaders under the highest safety standards.
The mission is being led by Flight Inspector and Head of Team, Selzing Dorkur Miri, who explained that the calibration will enhance the precision and reliability of navigational aids while promoting interoperability across West African airspace. He added that the exercise also strengthens regional collaboration through knowledge sharing and capacity building.
Senior officials from SLAA, NAMA and SLCAA were present at the launch, reaffirming their collective commitment to International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) standards and collaborative growth within the aviation sector.
The Sierra Leone Civil Aviation Authority commended all stakeholders for their professionalism and dedication in executing the exercise, describing the initiative as a vital milestone in the country’s pursuit of aviation safety excellence and modernization.
