South African Civil Aviation Authority - SACAA

South African Civil Aviation Authority - SACAA The South African Civil Aviation Authority (SACAA) is a Schedule 3A public entity in terms of the Public Finance Management Act (“PFMA”).

The South African Civil Aviation Authority (SACAA) is the national body responsible for controlling, regulating, and promoting aviation safety, security, and sustainability. It was established on the 1st of October 1998, following the enactment of the now repealed South African Civil Aviation Authority Act,1998 (Act No.40 of 1998). The Act provided for the establishment of a stand-alone authority

charged with promoting, regulating and enforcing civil aviation safety and security. It reflected the Government's priorities and was in line with international trends in the aviation world where more and more states implemented this option. The abovementioned Act was repealed as a whole by the Civil Aviation Act, 2009, (Act No.13 of 2009). The Act, provides for the establishment of a stand-alone authority mandated with controlling, promoting, regulating, supporting, developing, enforcing and continuously improving levels of safety and security throughout the civil aviation industry. The SACAA is an agency of the Department of Transport (DoT). The above is to be achieved by complying with the Standards and Recommended Practices (SARPs) of the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO), whilst considering the local context.

08/09/2026

Behind every journey is a story.

We heard from the parents and learners who will soon be leaving for China to pursue their degrees in aviation, sharing what this opportunity means to them and the hopes they carry for the journey ahead.

Across their heartfelt messages, three themes stood out: resilience, perseverance and gratitude.

For these young learners, this is more than an opportunity to study abroad. It is a chance to pursue their dreams, broaden their horizons and take another step towards shaping the future of aviation.

For their parents, it is a moment of pride, seeing their children’s hard work, determination and perseverance open doors to possibilities beyond what they may have imagined.

These are the voices behind the journey. And their stories remind us that every future begins with an opportunity.

From South Africa to China. From opportunity to possibility.Yesterday marked a proud moment for the South African Civil ...
08/09/2026

From South Africa to China. From opportunity to possibility.

Yesterday marked a proud moment for the South African Civil Aviation Authority (SACAA) as we bid farewell to a second group of four young South Africans embarking on an exciting new chapter, travelling to China to pursue studies in aviation-related fields under the SACAA scholarship partnership with the Civil Aviation Flight University of China.

They follow in the footsteps of the first cohort, who departed for China last year, successfully completed their first year of study and have now embarked on their second year.

Meet Andile Mtshali, Leatile Morabe, Buhle Nkosi and Lwandile Cimani, four young South Africans beginning their aviation journeys in China and joining a growing family of SACAA-supported students who are gaining international exposure, developing their skills and preparing to contribute to the future of South Africa’s aviation sector.

Congratulating the students, the SACAA Director of Civil Aviation, Ms Poppy Khoza, noted that “Aviation is a demanding, exciting, and highly technical industry, and it requires a strong pipeline of skilled professionals.

Through this programme, we are investing not only in individual students, but also in the future capability and competitiveness of South Africa’s aviation industry. Make your parents proud, make your country proud and make us proud.”

The China scholarship programme is an important outcome of the SACAA’s cooperation with our partners in China. More than an opportunity to study abroad, it represents a shared commitment to skills development, international collaboration and empowering young people through quality education and global exposure.

As these students take flight towards their next chapter, they carry with them more than their ambitions. They carry the opportunity to help shape the future of aviation.

Their journey is taking off. The future of aviation is theirs to build.

Cleaner air. Safer skies. A more sustainable future. On the International Day of Clean Air for Blue Skies, we reaffirm o...
07/09/2026

Cleaner air. Safer skies. A more sustainable future.

On the International Day of Clean Air for Blue Skies, we reaffirm our commitment to protecting air quality and supporting a more sustainable aviation sector. Through the implementation of ICAO Annex 16, Volume II standards, the SACAA helps ensure compliance with international aircraft engine emissions requirements, contributing to responsible aviation and cleaner air in the communities and environments we share.

Every journey through our skies is part of a bigger picture. Building a sustainable aviation future is a responsibility we all share.

Sustainable aviation. Safer skies. Greener future.

The SACAA’s statement on the Airlink Flypast at the DHL Cape Town Stadium that took place on Saturday, 29 August 2026.Re...
02/09/2026

The SACAA’s statement on the Airlink Flypast at the DHL Cape Town Stadium that took place on Saturday, 29 August 2026.

Read the statement here:

SACAA strengthens aviation oversight through continental collaboration Stronger aviation oversight is built through the ...
28/08/2026

SACAA strengthens aviation oversight through continental collaboration

Stronger aviation oversight is built through the continuous exchange of expertise, practical knowledge, and regulatory experience. Reflecting this commitment, the South African Civil Aviation Authority (SACAA) hosted a delegation from the Seychelles Civil Aviation Authority (SCAA) from 17–28 August 2026 for a structured On-the-Job Training (OJT) Programme focused on Aerodrome Safety and Infrastructure oversight.

The programme forms part of ongoing cooperation among African civil aviation authorities to strengthen regulatory capabilities, share technical expertise and advance aviation safety across the continent, in alignment with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) standards. As a key contributor to aviation regulatory capacity in Africa, the SACAA shares its technical expertise and regulatory experience to support practical learning and strengthen oversight capabilities across the continent.

During the two-week programme, the Seychelles delegation engaged with the SACAA technical specialists, reviewed regulatory documentation, attended technical presentations and participated in live aerodrome surveillance inspections.

The collaboration demonstrates how knowledge exchange and practical capacity building can strengthen regulatory institutions and contribute to safer, more resilient aviation systems across Africa.

The SACAA corrects the narrative that it fired an employee because of whistleblowing. Read the statement here:
27/08/2026

The SACAA corrects the narrative that it fired an employee because of whistleblowing. Read the statement here:

For today's , we spotlight Niveshnee Govender, Quality and Safety Manager. She serves as the driving force behind robus...
26/08/2026

For today's , we spotlight Niveshnee Govender, Quality and Safety Manager. She serves as the driving force behind robust Safety Management Systems (SMS) and risk management strategies.

Whether leading internal audits, refining standard operating procedures, or fostering a workplace where transparent reporting and continuous learning thrive, professionals in this role ensure that safety is never just a protocol—it’s a mindset.

Thank you to all the incredible women setting the standard high and keeping excellence in flight.


SKYwatch 19th Edition is Officially Out!As the SACAA’s premier safety brief, SKYwatch brings you the latest regulatory ...
24/08/2026

SKYwatch 19th Edition is Officially Out!

As the SACAA’s premier safety brief, SKYwatch brings you the latest regulatory insights, expert perspectives, and safety developments shaping South African aviation - from drone innovation and sustainability to key takeaways from the NAC 2026.

Explore the 19th edition here: https://bit.ly/4xSHlcK

Have an aviation perspective or safety story to share? We’re always looking for industry experts, safety advocates, and innovators to contribute to future editions.

Send us a DM or email [email protected] to get involved and add your voice to the conversation!

As part of our campaign, we proudly spotlight the exceptional women shaping the technical excellence of South African ...
24/08/2026

As part of our campaign, we proudly spotlight the exceptional women shaping the technical excellence of South African aviation.

Meet Sindiswa Mntambo, an expert Aircraft Spraypainter whose precision craftsmanship goes far beyond aesthetics. Her work applies vital protective coatings that prevent corrosion, minimise aerodynamic drag, and shield aircraft against extreme high-altitude weather.

From the hangar floor to breaking barriers across the sector, Sindiswa’s dedication highlights the crucial roles women occupy in aerospace.


Address

Ikhaya Lokundiza, Byls Bridge Office Park, 11 Byls Bridge Boulevard
Centurion
0157

Opening Hours

Monday 07:30 - 17:30
Tuesday 07:30 - 17:00
Wednesday 07:30 - 17:00
Thursday 07:30 - 17:00
Friday 07:30 - 17:30

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