SA aviation industry gets highest safety rating, says Transport Minister

SA Transport minister, Fikile Mbalula, has said that safety and security standards for the SA aviation industry are the ‘highest possible’.

A cause for celebration for SA aviation industry

Speaking at the South African Civil Aviation Authority (SACAA) on Tuesday, 8 November, Fikile Mbalula said that the country is currently maintaining a Category 1 status in a safety index conducted by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO). This Category 1 is the highest safety rating possible, reports Business Insider.

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The transport minister said that this status boosts the wider tourism and business industries in the country.

“The implication for South African operators is that they can fly or operate directly into the United States unhindered. Simply put, a Category 1 status means that the two countries’ safety systems are on par.” Mbalula said, adding that the US had increased its traffic volumes to South Africa, and having unhindered travel was great for the economy.

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The SA aviation industry has impressively increased its safety standards since 2017, to 87.39%, from the standard 69%. This security score is also heading towards achieving its milestone in March 2023, when the final audit is completed.

“I would like to caution aviators during the festive season to exercise diligence in ensuring safety in aviation operations. We have sustained an impressive safety record over the years because we understand the dangers of expediency at the expense of safety,” the transport minister added.

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