Dar es Salaam. Stakeholders in air navigation services from within and outside the country have converged in Dar es Salaam for a two-day meeting aimed at discussing technological challenges and crafting strategies to enhance safety, efficiency and sustainability in the aviation sector.
The meeting, organised by the Tanzania Civil Aviation Authority (TCAA), has drawn experts from various aviation-related institutions, including representatives from airlines, aerospace engineers, air safety and communication professionals, and air navigation service providers.
Speaking during the official opening of the meeting, the Acting Director General of TCAA, Mr Daniel Malanga, described the gathering as a vital platform for stakeholders to exchange knowledge and explore strategies to address the rapidly evolving technological landscape facing the global aviation industry.
“This meeting presents a unique opportunity for professionals to develop robust approaches to improving air navigation services. Collaborative efforts among institutions and member states are key to establishing a safe, efficient and sustainable aviation system,” Mr Malanga said.
He further emphasised that the success of the aviation system hinges on cooperation between air navigation services, airlines, and airport infrastructure, all of which must be governed in accordance with the laws and regulations overseen by the TCAA.
TCAA Director of Air Navigation Services, Ms Flora Alphonce, noted that the Government of Tanzania continues to invest in aviation communication infrastructure as part of ongoing efforts to reinforce airspace safety and keep pace with technological progress.
“Over Sh41 billion has been spent on upgrading voice communication systems, which form the backbone of safe communication between air traffic controllers and pilots,” said Ms Alphonce.
Some participants at the meeting lauded TCAA’s efforts in ensuring the safety and quality of aviation services.
Ms Stella Mwagi, a representative from Coastal Aviation, said Tanzania had become a model for investment in aviation technology and safety across the African continent.