By O’Neill A.R. Philips
The Liberia Airport Authority (LAA) said, plan is underway to receive the International Civil Aviation Certification during the latter part of this year.
LAA Director General, Ernest R. Hughes, made the disclosure at the Ministry of Information ( MoI) press conference on Tuesday, March 3, 2026, in Monrovia.
Hughes said, the certification will recognize the Roberts International Airport (RIA) as aviation safety hub in west Africa, and probably secure direct flight to the United States of America.
He said, the LAA has contracted a renowned regional aviation company that will assess, support, train and prepare the LAA to amicably receive the international aviation certification.
“It is the vision of the LAA to become certified by 2026. We have hired a renowned regional aviation consultancy firm through a competitive tendering process to assess, support, train and prepare LAA/RIA for certification. This certification of RIA will be the first ever. “
According to Hughes, the certification will encourage new carriers, supports LAA’s vision to be a safety hub in West Africa.
Additionally, he said, LAA is upgrading its safety and rescue services.
Mr. Hughes noted that the entity is about to purchase five fire trucks and ambulances in a bid to obtain category #10 in the aviation sector.
“To obtain category #10 will be the first time LAA has ever reached that safety measure.”
Hughes also spoke of improved work condition at the RIA, and an overall improved safety mechanism at LAA.