Africa Weekly Aviation Trails: Week 25, 2025.

Introduction.

From 16 to 20 June 2025, the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) Western and Central Africa (WACAF) Office convened a regional volcanic ash workshop in Yaoundé, Cameroon. The event brought together aviation regulators, meteorological agencies, volcano observatories, and air navigation service providers to develop a harmonized safety framework tailored to Africa’s unique volcanic risk profile. Key priorities included strengthening early-warning systems, enhancing inter-agency coordination, and contextualizing ICAO standards for volcanic ash contingency planning. This initiative represents a significant step forward in regional preparedness, aimed at ensuring safer flight operations amid volcanic hazards.

Meanwhile, from 17 to 19 June 2025, Kampala hosted the 15th IFATSEA Africa Regional Meeting, drawing over 100 Air Traffic Safety Electronics Personnel (ATSEPs) and aviation leaders from across the continent. Held under the theme “Digital Transformation in CNS/ATM: Strengthening ATSEP Competencies for a Safer and Sustainable Future,” the meeting spotlighted emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, drone-based calibration, and satellite navigation. Uganda Civil Aviation Authority‘s showcased its locally developed aeronautical billing and maintenance management systems, underscoring its commitment to innovation. The meeting concluded with the establishment of regional working groups to accelerate the integration of AI and drone technologies into Africa’s aviation safety systems.

AOCs/ASLs/Regulations.

In response to the EU’s ban on Tanzania-registered airlines, the TANZANIA CIVIL AVIATION AUTHORITY(TCAA) has temporarily opened its skies to international carriers—including Qatar Airways and Ethiopian Airlines —for six months to mitigate trade and connectivity losses. The TCAA has also issued block permits to enable collaborations with foreign operators, allowing them to position aircraft in Tanzania and serve affected clients. This measure ensures continued air services while the country works to address regulatory gaps and restore compliance, aiming to reinstate its carriers in European airspace through ongoing safety and oversight reforms.