21/07/2026
CAA Calls for Stronger Aviation Meteorological Services Ahead of ICAO Audit
Director General of the Malawi Civil Aviation Authority (CAA), Alfred Mtilatila, has underscored the critical role of aviation meteorological services in ensuring safe, regular, and efficient air navigation, calling for strengthened implementation of International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) standards through enhanced collaboration and capacity building.
Speaking during the opening of the ICAO OPMET Workshop in Lilongwe, Mtilatila said compliance with ICAO Annex 3 – Meteorological Service for International Air Navigation is a vital investment in aviation safety, operational efficiency, and the resilience of Malawi's air transport system. He noted that the workshop provides an opportunity for stakeholders to deepen their understanding of the latest ICAO provisions, strengthen national implementation, and improve operational practices, regulatory oversight, and service delivery.
ICAO experts Bissa Sougue, a Communication, Navigation and Surveillance (CNS) Expert from Burkina Faso, and Maluta Tshifaro, Aviation Meteorological Expert from South Africa, said their technical mission would focus on strengthening Malawi's aviation meteorological services by supporting the implementation of ICAO Annex 3 and World Meteorological Organization (WMO) standards. They identified priority areas including operationalising the Meteorological Service for International Air Navigation Regulations under the Civil Aviation Authority, establishing a Quality Management System, strengthening staff competency, implementing a sustainable cost recovery framework, improving meteorological infrastructure and communication systems, and enhancing the availability of meteorological data to support effective service delivery.
The workshop brought together officials from the Malawi Civil Aviation Authority, the Malawi School of Aviation, the Department of Meteorological Services, ICAO experts, and other aviation stakeholders. It is expected to strengthen institutional capacity, enhance coordination among key stakeholders, and improve Malawi's preparedness for the forthcoming ICAO audit while reinforcing the safety, efficiency, and reliability of aviation meteorological services in the country.