THE Guyana Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) has announced the signing of a significant Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Uganda Civil Aviation Authority (UCAA). This agreement marks a pivotal step in strengthening international co-operation in civil aviation between Guyana and Uganda.

According to a press release, the MoU establishes a framework for expanded technical collaboration, knowledge sharing, and the adoption of best practices in the management, modernisation, and maintenance of civil aviation systems. Both authorities aim to enhance the safety, efficiency, and regulatory standards of air transport in their respective countries through mutual support.

Under the terms of the MoU, the GCAA and UCAA will collaborate on a range of initiatives, including safety surveillance and oversight; aircraft certification; State Safety Programme (SSP) and Safety Management Systems (SMS); personnel licensing and training; aerodrome and airworthiness management; institutional strengthening and human resources development and regulation and economic oversight of air transport.

The release added that joint activities will include the exchange of information, deployment of experts and instructors for training and technical missions, and the development of studies that benefit both parties. Each initiative will be supported by the necessary resources and personnel, as mutually agreed by the GCAA and UCAA.

The agreement underscores the commitment of both authorities to uphold the highest standards of confidentiality and intellectual property. All collaborative activities will comply with respective national laws and regulations, and any divergence in interpretation or implementation will be addressed through consultation, the release added.

Meanwhile, Director General of the Guyana Civil Aviation Authority, Lt Col (Ret’d) Egbert Field, A.A., expressed enthusiasm about the partnership, stating, “This collaboration paves the way for improved aviation safety and operational excellence. Through this MoU, we are taking decisive action to raise the bar for civil aviation in both Guyana and Uganda.”

The MoU was signed by Lt. Col. (Ret’d) Field for Guyana and Mrs. Olive Birungi Lumonya, Deputy Director General of the Uganda Civil Aviation Authority.