Aviation training boosts jobs, strengthens flight safety – TCAA

ARUSHA: THE Tanzania Civil Aviation Authority (TCAA) has recorded notable progress in strengthening aviation safety, security and regulatory oversight during the 2024/2025 financial year, its Director General, Mr Salim Msangi, has said.

Mr Msangi made the remarks recently while presenting the Authority’s performance report at the 18th Joint Transport Sector Review Meeting held at the Arusha International Conference Centre (AICC).

He said TCAA had focused on updating aviation regulations, improving standards for aerodromes and aircraft operations, and expanding inspections to enhance safety and reliability of air transport services nationwide.

The Director General explained that the Authority intensified surveillance of airports and aviation operators, addressed safety risks such as obstacles around aerodromes, and strengthened compliance through regular inspections and close engagement with stakeholders.

“These measures have resulted in safer airport operations, improved service delivery and increased confidence in Tanzania’s civil aviation system among operators, passengers and international partners,” he said.

Mr Msangi also highlighted achievements in aviation training and systems modernisation, noting that the Civil Aviation Training Centre (CATC) has continued to play a key role in developing skilled aviation professionals.

He said the Centre has gained international recognition for excellence in aviation security training, including hosting global aviation security programmes.

In addition, the Authority has completed major communication system upgrades and introduced digital information-sharing initiatives aimed at improving operational efficiency, enhancing national security and supporting tourism growth.

For many years, the aviation sector has required highly skilled professionals to ensure safety, reliability and sustainable growth.

Through TCAA, the government has taken deliberate steps to ensure Tanzanians acquire these critical skills and directly benefit from the sector.

As the aviation regulator, TCAA manages the Pilot Training Fund, which facilitates professional pilot training abroad in collaboration with air operators.

ALSO READ: Tanzania to establish state-of-the-art civil aviation training centre

The initiative addresses the high cost of pilot training and ensures the availability of qualified Tanzanian pilots trained at internationally approved institutions.

At the same time, TCAA operates CATC, which provides specialised aviation training essential for daily aviation operations.

The Centre offers courses in Air Traffic Management, Aeronautical Information Services and a range of short courses, including drone pilot training, all of which support the effective functioning and sustainability of the aviation industry.

CATC does not offer pilot training but instead focuses on building the technical workforce that keeps aviation systems operating safely and efficiently.

One beneficiary is Ms Pendo Charles, a graduate of the Air Traffic Management Officer course at CATC, now working at TCAA’s Julius Nyerere International Airport station.

“The training I received at CATC enabled me to secure employment and contribute directly to flight safety. It completely changed my life,” she said.