Sierra Leone

1. What were the achievements of CAA in 2023?

In 2023 we successfully reviewed the SLCAA Act to ensure compliance with the Chicago Convention. All primary legislation was amended in line with the recommendations made by the assistance mission of WACAF and BAGASOO. We also prioritised capacity building so that our safety and security oversight functions can be enhanced.

The Consumer Protection Unit was re-established to ensure that passengers travelling to and from FNA received the required service from Airlines when it comes to issues of lost baggage, left baggage, delayed baggage, and general consumer concerns. We further hosted our Colleagues from the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority who helped us review our consumer protection regulations.

In 2023 Sierra Leone, successfully implemented the Billing and Settlement Plan after extensive stakeholder engagements. Sierra Leone is the first in the Manor River Union to achieve this status.

We have also engaged the EU Commission for safety, and kick started the process in getting Sierra Leone removed from the EU safety list. Sierra Leone has been on the list since 2008. We are hopeful that with the gains made in the areas of Safety, Security and the oversight systems that have been established Sierra Leone will successfully be removed from the list in 2024.

2. What are the challenges and how can AFCAC support you?

Capacity building is a continuous task, and we still need support in this area. It is also important for a needs assessment to be conducted so that the authority can adequately prioritize its training needs. We would also like to Improve on the implementation of Quality Management System (QMS) for AIM and support in exploring Sierra Leone’s potential in developing Sustainable Aviation Fuel. Sierra Leone will also need the support of AFCAC in preparing for the EU Commission’s review of our systems.

3. The State has implemented SAATM.

We are happy to report that Sierra Leone has made great efforts towards the implementation of SAATM. Sierra Leone has:

• Sign the Solemn Agreement in 2016
• Domesticated the solemn commitment.
• Liberalization of our skies/open sky policy (3^rd, 4^th, 5^th and 7^th Freedoms)
• All BASA’s aligned with the YD
• Designation of National Carrier (Kenya Airways)
• Constituted and nominated the National Implementation Committees for the YD and SAATM.
• Designation of focal person
• Signed the Memorandum of Implementation of the YD.
• The State is yet to celebrate the YD day locally, however, plans are underway for this to be concluded.

4. What can you say about SAATM PROJECT Implementation (PIP)?

The pilot survey has been helpful to countries that are unable to fully implement the 8-concrete measures of the SAATM. It is a great project that will get Africa connected by ensuring that everyone has the required support.  The impact will no doubt enhance connectivity between African State, bring about Social, Economic and Political Integration and Boost Intra-African Trade.

5. What are your 5th Freedom intra-Africa Routes?

• Kenya Airways 5th Freedom Right (FREETOWN – LIBERIA – ACCRA) Discontinued
• ASKY Airlines routes (FREETOWN – LIBERIA – ACCRA) Discontinued
• Africa World Airlines route (Freetown – LIBERIA – ACCRA) Discontinued