SCAA calls for unified efforts to ensure aviation safety |12 September 2023
By Laura Pillay
The Seychelles Civil Aviation Authority (SCAA) has issued a plea to all airport stakeholders to unite in their commitment to maintain the highest safety standards in the country’s aviation industry.
This call to action came during the opening of the African Airports Safety Week, as SCAA chief executive Garry Albert addressed the community.
Mr Albert stressed the critical importance of harmonising efforts to uphold Seychelles’ reputation as a safe destination for aviation.
He underlined that any aviation incidents could have dire economic consequences, making the need for collaboration even more urgent.
The airport aviation community in Seychelles encompasses various organisations, including Air Seychelles, Zil Air, Islands Development Company (IDC) Aviation, Skychef, Seypec, and the Seychelles Air Force (SAF).
In an effort to engage all these stakeholders, the SCAA organised a safety symposium, in which partners from different organisations shared their experiences and exchanged ideas on enhancing the safety culture within their respective entities. They also discussed best practices and explored the synergy between airport safety performance and compliance.
Kisnan Tamatave, the Aviation Safety manager of SCAA, emphasised the importance of safety promotion in airport safety management systems.
“We want to develop a common culture in the airport, as each organisation and individual brings their own cultural background to the workplace. To move forward effectively, we need to evolve from managing our operations separately to establishing an integrated safety management system.”
Addressing the issue of compliance, he said having a functional safety management system is often a critical factor for operators deciding to operate in Seychelles.
He highlighted that dialogue and communication among stakeholders were essential for improving safety, and that the airport’s consumers ultimately benefited from these efforts.
According to Mr Tamatave, safety procedures had evolved significantly since the introduction of the safety management system in 2014.
With regard to the growing air traffic in Seychelles, Mr Tamatave acknowledged the associated safety risks. He mentioned that a collective approach to risk assessment and mitigation was crucial to ensure safe operations.
“We must consider all risks and strive for excellence in service delivery and safety management as the airport continues to develop,” he added.
The SCAA’s call for harmonisation among airport stakeholders underscores the nation’s commitment to maintaining the highest safety standards in its aviation industry, CEO Albert noted.
By fostering collaboration, sharing experiences, and promoting a common safety culture, Seychelles aims to secure its reputation as a safe and attractive destination for aviation enthusiasts and travellers alike.
Throughout the week, SCAA has planned a number of activities to commemorate African Airports Safety Week. These include airside visits by administrative staff, as well as school visits to the airport.
The accompanying photos show highlights of yesterday’s ceremony to launch the African Airports Safety Week.
Photos by Joena Meme