In a landmark development aimed at boosting aviation safety and security in the region, the Banjul Accord Group Accident Investigation Agency (BAGAIA) and the Southern African Development Community Aviation Safety Organisation (SASO) have formalized their collaboration by signing a Memorandum of Cooperation (MOC) during the AFI Aviation Week held in Libreville, Gabon.
The MOC was signed on July 19, 2024, by Engr. Charles Irikefe Erhueh, Commissioner of BAGAIA, and Mr. Kabo Phutietsile, Executive Director of SASO. This strategic agreement is designed to enhance the operational capabilities of both organizations in alignment with the Convention on International Civil Aviation and its associated protocols.
Through this partnership, BAGAIA and SASO will engage in comprehensive information exchange and share expertise, focusing on the adoption of best practices in aviation safety. This initiative will also involve the formalization, consolidation, and promotion of shared experiences with other Regional Safety Oversight Organizations (RSOOs) and Regional Accident Investigation Organizations (RAIOs).
The MOC outlines a collaborative framework for implementing the essential components of a state safety oversight system. This includes joint efforts in activities that aim to elevate safety standards. Additionally, BAGAIA and SASO will work to harmonize their regulations, manuals, procedures, and programs to support Member States in meeting the requirements set forth by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO).
This partnership between BAGAIA and SASO underscores a significant step forward in regional aviation safety, setting a precedent for future collaborations among aviation safety bodies globally.
