821Strengthening Liberia’s Aviation Safety

-LAA Commissions New Cutting-Edge Landing and Weather Observation Systems at RIA

The Liberia Airport Authority (LAA), in collaboration with the Liberia Civil Aviation Authority (LCAA), proudly announces the successful commissioning and operational activation of the new Instrument Landing System (ILS) and Automatic Weather Observation System (AWOS) at Roberts International Airport (RIA) under Phase 1 of the INTELCAN Navigation Aids Modernization Project.  The systems were officially flight calibrated and commissioned with the technical support of the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA), whose expertise and partnership contributed significantly to the successful completion of this critical aviation safety milestone.   The commissioning of the ILS and AWOS represents a major advancement in  Liberia’s aviation infrastructure modernization program and demonstrates the Government of Liberia’s continued commitment to achieving full compliance with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) Standards and Recommended Practices (SARPs).The newly commissioned systems will significantly improve aircraft approach and landing capabilities at RIA, particularly during periods of low visibility and adverse weather conditions. The AWOS will provide real-time meteorological information to pilots and air traffic controllers, thereby enhancing operational safety, efficiency, and reliability of flight operations.   Importantly, this achievement directly addresses and contributes toward the closure of one of the Significant Safety Concerns (SSC) identified by ICAO during the last aviation safety oversight audit of Liberia. The operationalization of these systems mark a critical step forward in strengthening Liberia’s aviation safety oversight framework and supporting the country’s ongoing Aerodrome Certification and aviation modernization initiatives.   The LAA extends profound appreciation to the Nigerian Airspace  Management Agency (NAMA), INTELCAN Technosystems Inc., the Liberia Civil Aviation Authority, and all stakeholders whose dedication and technical collaboration made this achievement possible.  Upon taking over as Managing Director of the LAA, Hon. Ernest R. Hughes emphasized that safety, security and improved customer relations are three core areas his administration will improve on in making RIA a destination of choice for all airport users.   Management recognizes the Communication, Navigation and Surveillance (CNS) Department for its professionalism, technical competence, and unwavering commitment throughout the installation, testing, coordination, and commissioning phases of the project. The dedication and hard work of the CNS played a pivotal role in the successful implementation of this critical national aviation infrastructure project.  LAA remains committed to the continued modernization of RIA and the enhancement of aviation safety, security, and operational excellence in Liberia.