Gov’t committed to transforming the aviation industry

By: Emmanuel Wise Jipoh

Minister of State without Portfolio, Mamaka Bility, has assured government’s commitments to investing more in air Navigation and support to airports.

Addressing the Aviation awareness Week in Congo Town, under the theme: “Connecting Liberia: The Power of Aviation, Minister Bility said government considers the Aviation industry as key pillar to national development.

She also stressed the strategic importance of aviation in the government’s ARREST Agenda. “This administration fully recognizes the strategic importance of Aviation in achieving our national goals,” she said.

“So that is why, we are committed to invest in modernizing our airports and air Navigation system,” Minister Bility added.

According to her, aviation is a vital service to medical emergencies, and supplies to disasters response among other vital services.

She also mentioned government’s determination to meeting and surpassing international safety and security standards.

“Today Aviation is much more than an industry; it is the blood stream of our national development. It links our people to each other and to the global community, enables businesses to flow and connect culture, which is essential to our ARREST Agenda,” she said.

Madam Bility acknowledged the challenges, but said Liberia has made significant strives in its aviation history.

“I cannot help but reflect on Liberia’s proud aviation history from the establishment of the Robert International Airport which was once a busy hub in West Africa to the countless Liberians who dreamed of connecting by air to every corner of the world.

Aviation has always been the symbol of ambition, reaching beyond the horizon and opening Liberia to opportunities, she reflected.

However, Madam Bility stated that government will partner with regional and international bodies to ensure that Liberia remains vital and competitive in global aviation.

For his part, the Director- General of the Liberia Civil Aviation Authority, Julius D. Dennis Jr. rallied for more supports and investment in the (LCAA).

He stressed investment in the LCAA acts as a catalyst for economic growth across economies.

According to him, it enhances international standing as Liberia stands at a crucial juncture in its development.

“Investing in Aviation is key and an opportunity to transform its development agenda and the substantial benefits.

He highlighted the pivotal role of Civil aviation to economic growth, noting it improves infrastructure developments.

LCAA Director Dennis describes Liberia as a competitive regional hub, adding that efficient air transport facilitates trade, enhances air connectivity, attracts increased tourism, which in turn generates valuable employment in tourism and related service industries.