SLAA Pushes Air Navigation Reform in 2027 Budget

By Abdul Rahman Bah

Freetown, September 21, 2026 — The Sierra Leone Airports Authority (SLAA) has placed air navigation reform, aviation skills development and infrastructure modernization at the centre of its proposed FY2027 budget as the Authority seeks to strengthen the country’s aviation sector and improve Freetown International Airport’s regional competitiveness.

Presenting the Authority’s FY2027 budget during bilateral budget discussions with the Ministry of Finance at the Miatta Civic Centre, Youyi Building, Freetown, the General Manager of SLAA, Mr. Jack D.K. Massaquoi, said the Authority’s priorities are aligned with the national budget theme, “Building Resilience to Create Jobs.”

A major component of the proposed programme is the establishment of an Approved Training Organization (ATO) aimed at strengthening local capacity within the aviation industry. The initiative is expected to provide structured professional training for aviation personnel while reducing dependence on external training opportunities.

Mr. Massaquoi also disclosed plans to establish partnerships with universities to introduce aviation-related curricula into higher education. According to the Authority, the collaboration would help create a sustainable pipeline of qualified aviation professionals capable of meeting international standards and supporting the sector’s long-term development.

The FY2027 programme also places strong emphasis on aviation safety and operational efficiency. The General Manager confirmed plans for the full implementation of Performance-Based Navigation (PBN) and the calibration of key navigational aids, including the DVOR and Instrument Landing System (ILS).

The measures are intended to improve navigational accuracy, strengthen compliance with international aviation standards and enhance the overall safety and efficiency of air transport operations.

However, the Authority faces the challenge of rising operational costs as it seeks to implement the proposed reforms. Mr. Massaquoi acknowledged the financial pressures confronting the aviation sector but maintained that investment in air navigation services and human-resource development remains critical to building a more resilient and competitive aviation industry.

The FY2027 budget discussions therefore place SLAA’s proposed reforms within a broader national effort to strengthen public institutions, create skilled employment opportunities and modernize critical infrastructure. For Sierra Leone’s aviation sector, the effectiveness of these plans will ultimately depend on adequate financing, implementation capacity and sustained investment in safety-critical infrastructure