By Amin Kef (Ranger)
Sierra Leone’s Minister of Transport and Aviation, Alhaji Fanday Turay Esq., has reaffirmed the country’s commitment to aviation advancement during his address at the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) Facilitation Panel (#FALC2025) held in Doha. Representing Sierra Leone on the global stage, Minister Turay highlighted key milestones in the country’s aviation sector and called for collective action in shaping the future of global air travel.
Speaking to delegates from around the world, Minister Turay proudly shared Sierra Leone’s significant progress in aviation facilitation, including the successful commissioning of a new international airport, enhanced national coordination efforts, and a growing number of international airline partners now operating in the country.
“The future of aviation is now, and Sierra Leone is ready to lead with action and collaboration,” he stated. Emphasizing the importance of moving beyond discussion, Minister Turay urged his counterparts to embrace decisive action: “We should not be content with dialogue alone—let us commit to action. The skies we share demand bold vision, unwavering integrity, and collective resolve. The time for delay is over. The future of aviation is now, and it is ours to shape!”
Minister Turay also underscored the alignment of the Sierra Leone Civil Aviation Authority (SLCAA) with ICAO’s global facilitation priorities. These include improving passenger experience, streamlining border procedures, enhancing aviation security, and fostering seamless cross-sector collaboration.
“We are not just investing in infrastructure,” he explained. “We are investing in people, in systems, and in partnerships that will ensure sustainability, security, and resilience in our aviation landscape.”
Sierra Leone’s participation at the ICAO FALC 2025 reaffirms its proactive stance in contributing to international aviation standards and development. Minister Turay’s message was one of unity, forward-thinking, and action-oriented leadership—a call to fellow member states to match ambition with tangible results in creating a safer, more efficient, and more inclusive global aviation system.
The ICAO Facilitation Panel serves as a platform for member states to collaborate on standards and practices that streamline air travel, reduce bottlenecks, and promote sustainable development in aviation.
