(JUBA) – The South Sudan Civil Aviation Authority (SSCAA) has stepped up efforts to modernise the country’s aviation sector through a series of infrastructure projects, staff training programmes and international engagements aimed at improving safety, service delivery and sustainability at Juba International Airport.
In the month of October and November, SSCAA has launched several projects designed to enhance passenger experience and operational safety at the country’s main airport. These include the construction of a new passenger waiting shade outside the arrival terminal, aimed at providing travellers with a comfortable and shaded space while waiting for transport.
At the same time, SSCAA has undertaken a large scale grass and vegetation clearing exercise across Juba International Airport. The initiative aims to improve runway visibility, reduce wildlife hazards, and ensure smoother ground operations in line with international aviation safety standards. According to the authority, regular maintenance is essential for both safety and environmental sustainability, ensuring that operations run efficiently while maintaining the airport’s appearance.
The ongoing parking lot expansion project at Juba International Airport has also entered a major phase, with the asphalt laying process now underway. Once completed, the new parking area will help decongest traffic, improve accessibility, and enhance the airport’s weather resistance. SSCAA says the project represents its broader plan to build safe, secure, and sustainable aviation infrastructure that supports South Sudan’s growing air transport needs.
| Project | Purpose | Expected Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Waiting Shade Construction | Passenger comfort and convenience | Better travel experience |
| Vegetation Clearing | Safety and visibility improvement | Reduced wildlife hazards |
| Parking Lot Expansion | Improve airport access and traffic flow | Increased capacity and safety |
Beyond infrastructure development, the SSCAA continues to engage in international collaboration to strengthen its technical and management capacity. The authority recently participated in the 17th Global Humanitarian Aviation Conference held in Istanbul, Turkey. The South Sudanese delegation, led by Hon. John Woja Elinana, Director General of SSCAA, joined aviation experts and humanitarian partners to discuss ways to sustain humanitarian air services amid funding shortages.
The three day event focused on maintaining essential air operations to support humanitarian efforts in remote regions. Topics included cost effective innovation, partnership building, and technology adoption to ensure the continuity of air transport services that serve as lifelines for communities in crisis. SSCAA officials used the platform to engage with global aviation leaders and explore strategies to improve South Sudan’s role in humanitarian air operations.
Meanwhile, SSCAA marked Air Traffic Controllers Day 2025 by recognising the vital role of air traffic controllers in maintaining safe skies across the country. Speaking during the event, Mr Daffalla Habib Awongo, Director for Corporate Services, praised the controllers for their professionalism and commitment. He described them as “the unseen guardians of air safety,” whose work ensures the orderly and secure movement of aircraft across South Sudan’s airspace.
Mr Awongo also highlighted the ongoing training of twelve new South Sudanese air traffic controllers in Kenya and through the International Air Transport Association (IATA). The programme, expected to conclude by the end of October 2025, will help boost the country’s technical expertise in aviation management. He said SSCAA is continuing to strengthen partnerships with regional and international organisations such as the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), Ethiopia, and Qatar to promote capacity building and institutional development.
Through these combined efforts, the SSCAA said it aims to establish a safer, more efficient, and globally connected aviation sector that supports both economic growth and humanitarian response in South Sudan.
