Luanda:Angola has successfully completed the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) Coordinated Validation Mission for Continuous Monitoring, identifying no Significant Safety Concerns (SSC).
According to Angola Press News Agency, the mission was conducted in Luanda from October 21 to November 6, aiming to assess progress in implementing corrective measures from the 2022 audit and verify the effectiveness of Angola's civil aviation safety oversight system.
The mission, part of the Universal Safety Oversight Audit Programme, evaluated eight key technical areas, including legislation, organisation, personnel licensing, aircraft operations, airworthiness, accident and incident investigation, air navigation services, and aerodromes and ground aids.
In a press release sent to ANGOP, Amélia Kuvíngua, Chairperson of the National Civil Aviation Authority (ANAC), described the absence of any SSC as a positive indication of Angola's efforts to enhance its oversight capacity and compliance with ICAO standards. Kuvíngua emphasized the need for continued improvement, likening the audit process to a 'medical consultation' and stressing the importance of understanding the assessment and following recommendations.
Arkadii Merkulov, the mission's lead auditor, congratulated Angola on its progress since 2022, when its effective implementation rate was 62.03%. He acknowledged ANAC's commitment and government support while emphasizing the necessity for ongoing monitoring in areas needing further attention.
Preliminary data suggests a significant improvement in the effective implementation rate, with final results to be confirmed by ICAO headquarters in Montreal, Canada, upon completion of data analysis. ANAC reaffirmed that a robust oversight system enhances Angola's international credibility, promotes air connectivity, stimulates tourism and trade, and strengthens confidence among international operators and investors.
