Post a comment 
The Sierra Leone Civil Aviation Authority (SLCAA), under the dynamic leadership of Director General Musayeroh Barrie, continues to chart a bold course for the future of aviation.
On October 25, 2025, the Authority hosted a landmark airport tour themed “Inspiring the Next Generation of Aviation Professionals”, offering children a rare, immersive experience into the world of aviation.
Departing from Sea Coach at Aberdeen to the Freetown International Airport in Lungi, the young participants-accompanied by parents and teachers-were warmly welcomed by DG Barrie, who expressed gratitude to Sea Coach for facilitating a comfortable journey. She encouraged the children to explore, ask questions, and embrace the day as a journey of discovery.
“The foundation we are laying for these children is very important,” Barrie remarked. “They are going to see how the airport runs, and safety briefings will be conducted before they begin their tour. The chaperones and airport staff will guide them through each step.
The tour featured hands-on experiences, including check-in procedures and firefighting demonstrations, designed to spark curiosity and broaden career horizons. Addressing parents, Barrie emphasized the need to move beyond traditional career paths and expose children to emerging opportunities in aviation.
“There are more opportunities out there than being a lawyer or a doctor,” she said. “We must encourage our kids to explore new roles, because they are the foundation of the future that is to come.”
This initiative is part of SLCAA’s broader NGAP (Next Generation of Aviation Professionals) strategy, which Barrie has championed since assuming office. Her tenure has been marked by a commitment to inclusivity and generational renewal, with over half of SLCAA’s workforce now under the age of 40-a testament to her forward-looking vision.
The NGAP tour builds on Sierra Leone’s active participation in the ICAO NGAP Global Summit held in Durban in August 2025, where Barrie delivered a compelling address on developing a future-ready aviation workforce. Her presence reinforced Sierra Leone’s growing reputation as a nation committed to international aviation standards and youth empowerment.
Just days before the NGAP event, Barrie conducted an inspection of Lungi International Airport to assess operational readiness ahead of the peak travel season. The visit focused on safety, facilitation, and security protocols, with commitments made to enhance passenger experience.
During the tour, SLCAA also welcomed esteemed statesman Dr. Sama Banya to the new terminal. Barrie described his positive remarks as “an inspiration to our continued commitment to excellence in aviation.”
Earlier this year, Barrie represented Sierra Leone at the 42nd ICAO Assembly (A42) under the theme “Safe Skies, Sustainable Future.” As Vice Chairperson of the Administrative Commission, she reaffirmed Sierra Leone’s dedication to global aviation progress and environmental sustainability.
Breaking barriers as the first woman to lead SLCAA and one of Africa’s youngest aviation executives, Musayeroh Barrie is redefining the sector with resilience, intellect, and innovation. Her leadership is not only transforming SLCAA into a model regulatory body but also positioning Sierra Leone as a beacon of aviation progress across West Africa.
