A significant stride in the Aviation Industry was marked today as the Sierra Leone Airports Authority (SLAA) welcomed three newly qualified Air Traffic Control Officers.
These officers successfully completed the rigorous International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) English Language Proficiency Test in Accra, Ghana.
The SLAA General Manager warmly received the cadet officers, highlighting their accomplishment as a pivotal milestone. The ICAO English Language Proficiency Test, an essential prerequisite for aspiring air traffic controllers, evaluates language skills encompassing pronunciation, vocabulary, comprehension, and phraseology. This training equips air traffic controllers with the linguistic dexterity to effectively communicate with pilots, transcending language barriers.
During the ceremony, Mr. Jack Massaquoi, General Manager of Sierra Leone Airport Authority, praised the officers for their dedication to maintaining the highest standards of professionalism and safety.
“Effective communication is the backbone of air traffic control,” Manager Massaquoi stated, underscoring the officers’ commitment to ensuring safe and efficient operations within the airspace.
The event emphasized the critical role of air traffic controllers in safeguarding passengers and aircraft. It also reiterated the Authority’s commitment to continuous capacity building, fostering expertise within the air traffic control department.
The newly graduated cadets expressed gratitude for the opportunity to undertake the ICAO English Language Proficiency Test, acknowledging its significance in their field. They pledged to uphold the highest standards of professionalism, ensuring precise communication with pilots to ensure optimal air traffic management.
The successful completion of the ICAO English Language Proficiency Test by these cadets marks a substantial stride in enhancing aviation safety measures. Effective communication between air traffic controllers and pilots, regardless of their linguistic origins, significantly mitigates misunderstandings and potential hazards during flight operations.
As the Aviation Industry expands, the augmentation of air traffic controllers’ skills remains pivotal in ensuring safety and efficiency at Freetown International Airport. This effort aligns with the state’s expectations and contributes to enhancing services for the airport’s diverse clientele.
