16/05/2026
MINISTRY OF TRANSPORT AND LOGISTICS
PRESS RELEASE
MINISTRY OF TRANSPORT AND LOGISTICS COMMENDS DEPOSITION OF AVIATION INSTRUMENTS OF RATIFICATION WITH ICAO
LUSAKA, Zambia, Friday, May 16, 2026 - The Ministry of Transport and Logistics has reaffirmed Government’s commitment to strengthening aviation safety, security and international cooperation following the deposition of the Instruments of Ratification to the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) in Montreal, Canada.
The deposition follows guidance from the Office of the Vice President requesting the Ministry to deposit a number of key international aviation instruments aimed at enhancing global civil aviation governance and security.
The deposited Instruments of Ratification include:
1. Protocol Amending Article 3 Bis by inserting Article 3 BIS;
2. Protocol Amending Article 50 (A);
3. Protocol Amending Article 56;
4. Protocol Amending the Convention on Offences and Certain Other Acts Committed on Board Aircraft;
5. Convention on the Suppression of Unlawful Acts Relating to International Civil Aviation; and
6. Protocol Supplementary to the Convention for the Suppression of Unlawful Seizure of Aircraft.
The Ministry stated that the deposition of the instruments represents a historic and progressive milestone in Zambia’s aviation sector as the country continues aligning its legal and institutional framework with evolving international civil aviation standards.
The Ministry noted that the ratification and subsequent deposition of the instruments demonstrate Zambia’s resolve to combat emerging threats to civil aviation, including unlawful seizure of aircraft, terrorism-related activities, cyber threats, and the misuse of civil aircraft for unlawful purposes.
The Ministry further emphasised that the move will enhance Zambia’s standing within the global aviation community while strengthening investor confidence, passenger safety, and international cooperation in aviation security matters.
Government has since commenced legislative reforms aimed at domesticating the provisions contained in the various protocols and conventions.
Among the key reforms is the ongoing review of the Civil Aviation Act No. 5 of 2016 to incorporate provisions of Article 3 BIS, which prohibits the use of weapons against civil aircraft in flight and strengthens safeguards for passengers and crew during aircraft interception.
The Ministry has also directed the Civil Aviation Authority to undertake a comprehensive review of all outstanding aviation conventions and protocols requiring ratification to ensure Zambia remains compliant with international obligations under ICAO.
Further, Government is enhancing coordination among aviation authorities, law enforcement agencies, security wings and other stakeholders to strengthen preparedness and response mechanisms against evolving aviation-related crimes and threats.
The Ministry of Transport and Logistics has since reiterated Government’s commitment to ensuring that Zambia remains a responsible and active member of the international aviation community through the promotion of safe, secure and sustainable air transport systems.
Issued by:
Original Copy Signed:
PUBLIC RELATIONS UNIT.
