By Amin Kef (Ranger)
Demonstrating its ongoing commitment to safeguarding aviation operations and enhancing public safety, the Sierra Leone Civil Aviation Authority (SLCAA) has issued a vital Advisory Circular (AC), warning pilots, airlines and stakeholders about hazardous weather conditions linked to thunderstorms and heavy rainfall during this period.
The circular, titled SLCAA-AC-ANS-TS-001, was released on June 4, 2025, and emphasizes heightened caution for all flight operations. It mandates that pilots must exercise maximum vigilance when thunderstorms or intense rainfall are forecasted or observed. Additionally, airlines are advised to obtain comprehensive weather briefings, including departure, en-route and destination conditions, from recognized authorities before initiating flights. All flight operators are further reminded to comply strictly with the Aerodrome Operating Minima (AOM) and established Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).
“The issuance of this Advisory Circular underscores our unwavering focus on ensuring aviation safety in Sierra Leone,” the Authority noted in its press statement. “All stakeholders are expected to comply fully with SLCAA regulations to prevent avoidable risks during this hazardous weather season.”
Thunderstorms remain one of aviation’s most dangerous weather phenomena, typically associated with severe turbulence, lightning, hail and reduced visibility. The SLCAA warns that flight through or under thunderstorm systems, especially during this peak season, poses serious safety risks and must be approached with the highest level of precaution.
The issuance of this circular comes amid a transformative period for the SLCAA under the leadership of its Director General, Madam Musayeroh Barrie, who has overseen a series of landmark reforms and developments aimed at strengthening Sierra Leone’s aviation framework.
Among the Authority’s key achievements is the development of a comprehensive strategic plan aimed at removing Sierra Leone from the European Union’s aviation safety list by early 2025. This plan, the product of successful engagements with the European Union Safety Commission, reflects a strong alignment with international aviation benchmarks and aims to boost Sierra Leone’s credibility on the global stage.
Another milestone was the SLCAA’s historic processing of its first-ever Air Operator Certificate (AOC) application; signaling readiness to support domestic airline operations and grow the country’s aviation industry.
Under Madam Musayeroh Barrie’s leadership, the Authority has also prioritized human capacity development, launching tailored training programs to enhance technical expertise among its personnel. Notably, a team of SLCAA staff is currently undergoing specialized aviation training in Italy, bolstering Sierra Leone’s ability to meet the demands of a modern aviation environment.
Additionally, the SLCAA signed a landmark Management Service Agreement with the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) during the August 2024 Air Navigation Conference in Montreal. The agreement includes targeted training programs and paves the way for the establishment of an ICAO-recognized aviation training school in Sierra Leone; a major step in realizing Madam Musayeroh Barrie’s vision to position the country as a hub for civil aviation excellence in the region.
“These achievements are a testament to the dedication of the SLCAA staff and the collaborative efforts of our partners,” said Madam Musayeroh Barrie. “In just one year, we have laid a foundation that will propel Sierra Leone’s aviation sector to new heights.”
With these forward-looking reforms and safety advisories, the SLCAA continues to establish itself as a proactive regulator committed to building a safe, secure and efficient civil aviation system in Sierra Leone. The country’s aviation sector is now better positioned to attract investment, support job creation and improve regional and international air connectivity.
