In a powerful show of commitment to aviation safety, the Government of Liberia, the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), and the Banjul Accord Group Aviation Safety Oversight Organization (BAGASOO) have joined forces to overhaul Liberia’s aviation safety system. This groundbreaking collaboration was announced following high-level talks held Wednesday at the Executive Mansion and Capitol Building, where top officials, lawmakers, and international aviation experts mapped out a bold action plan.

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).

Liberia Civil Aviation Authority (LCAA) Director General Hon. Julius D. Dennis, Jr. made it clear: the time for action is now. “We’re charting a roadmap for corrective measures, but success depends on strong support from all stakeholders and international partners,” he said. “Together with ICAO and BAGASOO, we’re closing gaps and setting a course to eliminate these safety concerns once and for all.”

ICAO Deputy Regional Director for Western and Central Africa, Mr. Manzi Nika Mehieza, commended Liberia’s resolve but stressed the challenges ahead. “With two major safety concerns still outstanding, this situation is critical. Strengthening the civil aviation authority with qualified personnel is key to turning the tide,” he urged, setting an ambitious three-month deadline for resolving the SSCs.

The commitment is echoed by House Speaker Hon. Richard N. Koon, who vowed robust legislative backing. “Aviation in Liberia has long been underfunded and underprioritized, but that changes right now. “We’re ready to allocate the necessary budget for new equipment and enhanced safety measures,” he declared, promising close cooperation with the Ministry of Finance to clear debts and ratify vital international protocols.

Minister of State without Portfolio Hon. Mamaka Bility, speaking for President Joseph N. Boakai, emphasized that aviation safety is a presidential priority. “The President’s leadership is hands-on. Our goal: not just a world-class airport, but one that is absolutely safe,” she said, outlining plans for a detailed reform roadmap, settled arrears with ICAO, and increased training and institutional capacity for LCAA.

National Security Advisor Samuel Kofi Woods highlighted the broader significance of the reforms: “Aviation safety is now a national security imperative. The appointment of an energetic and competent Director General signals Liberia’s determination to protect our skies and secure our economic future.”

With consensus from all quarters, Liberia is set to aggressively tackle its aviation safety shortcomings, modernize air navigation systems, invest in skilled personnel, and empower the LCAA as a robust regulatory force.

As ICAO and BAGASOO pledge ongoing technical support, Liberia’s aviation community looks forward to dramatic improvements ahead. One aviation expert aptly summarized the mission: “Fixing safety isn’t just about rules; it’s about building trust, saving lives, and ensuring every flight to and from Liberia’s skies lands safely.”