The delegation's attendance commenced with participation in the opening session of the Assembly, a crucial step in re-establishing Liberia’s voice and presence among the 193 Member States. Director General Dennis emphasized the importance of this moment, stating, "The restoration of our voting rights is a testament to the government's unwavering commitment to civil aviation.
This initiative is a direct response to the Significant Safety Issues identified in a Universal Safety Oversight Audit Programme (USOAP) audit conducted by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO). The audit highlighted critical deficiencies that posed an immediate risk to the safety and efficiency of airport operations.
During the talks, officials from both nations explored the possibility of EgyptAir establishing direct flights to Liberia. Such a service would significantly enhance air connectivity between the two African nations, promoting trade, tourism, and diplomatic ties.
The memorandum, signed by Mr. Julius D. Dennis, Jr., Director General of the Liberia Civil Aviation Authority (LCAA), and H.E. Abdulaziz Al-Duailej, President of the General Authority of Civil Aviation of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, aims to foster technical, administrative, and operational cooperation between the two nations
The urgent push comes on the heels of ICAO’s 2022 safety audit, which revealed critical safety gaps and placed Liberia’s aviation oversight score at 27%, far from the global benchmark of 75%. Two Significant Safety Concerns (SSCs) remain unresolved, putting aircraft and passengers at risk every time they land at Roberts International Airport (RIA).