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The Sierra Leone Airports Authority (SLAA) has announced that four Sierra Leonean air traffic controllers are currently in Accra, Ghana, undergoing a specialized refresher training programme in Aerodrome and Approach Control under its strategic partnership with the Ghana Aviation Training Academy (GATA).
According to SLAA, the training marks the practical implementation of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) signed between the two institutions and represents an important step in strengthening aviation safety and operational efficiency at Freetown International Airport.
The Authority said the programme is part of its broader human capital development strategy and aligns with the national development agenda championed by His Excellency President Julius Maada Bio, particularly the “Five Big Changers,” which emphasize skills development and institutional reform.
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The refresher course, being conducted in Accra, focuses on enhancing controllers’ competencies in aerodrome operations and approach control procedures. SLAA noted that these skills are critical to ensuring the safe and efficient movement of aircraft, especially as the Authority prepares for the implementation of Performance-Based Navigation (PBN) at Freetown International Airport.
Speaking on the development, SLAA General Manager, Jack D.K. Massaquoi said the training reflects the Authority’s commitment to professional capacity building in the aviation sector.
“This milestone demonstrates SLAA’s commitment to investing in competent aviation professionals as the foundation of aviation excellence,” Massaquoi said. “By operationalizing the MOU with GATA, we are strengthening Sierra Leone’s aviation safety, enhancing efficiency, and positioning Freetown International Airport to meet global expectations.”
SLAA further disclosed that the partnership with GATA will be expanded to include additional training opportunities for more staff. Planned future programmes will cover areas such as quality and safety management, aeronautical information management, and communication, navigation, and surveillance.
The Authority described the collaboration with GATA as a key pillar of its long-term vision to position Sierra Leone as a credible and competitive aviation hub in West Africa, while ensuring that local aviation professionals meet international standards.
