– LCAA Concludes Productive Visit to Qatar, Doha,
Qatar – A high-powered delegation from the Liberia Civil Aviation Authority (LCAA), led by Director General Mr. Julius D. Dennis, recently concluded a significant visit to Doha, following an invitation from the Qatar Civil Aviation Authority (QCAA). The delegation included notable figures such as Mr. David M. Farhat, Chairman of the LCAA Board; Ms. Felecia C. Gray, Director of Human Resources and Manpower Development; Mr. William A. K. Sion Jr., Supervisor of Air Transport and Economic Regulations; and Mr. Joseph B. Johnson, Office Manager to the Director General.
Upon their arrival, the delegation received a warm welcome from Mr. Mohamed Alhajri, President of the QCAA, who emphasized Qatar’s commitment to enhancing cooperation with African nations, particularly Liberia, through the African Civil Aviation Commission (AFCAC).
During the meetings, Director General Dennis expressed gratitude for the opportunity to discuss collaboration avenues. He highlighted the LCAA’s focus on improving training programs and addressing international obligations to key stakeholders such as the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), AFCAC, and BAGASOO. He also pointed out the pressing need to modernize Liberia’s aviation infrastructure, acknowledging the sector’s challenges stemming from prolonged civil unrest and other factors. Notably, he raised concerns about Liberia’s low effective implementation (E.I) score of 27.5%, as revealed in the 2022 ICAO USOAP/CMA audit results.
In response, President Alhajri assured the delegation of the QCAA’s full support for training initiatives and technical assistance. He expressed a readiness to work closely with the LCAA to address the issues highlighted in the ICAO audit. While acknowledging the high costs associated with aviation infrastructure projects, he pointed out the budgetary limitations faced by the QCAA. He proposed that a strong diplomatic engagement could facilitate the necessary support, urging the LCAA to pursue this strategy promptly, as Qatari financial resources are managed at the highest levels of government.
Both parties agreed to formalize their requests for assistance through established diplomatic channels, paving the way for future collaboration.
The Liberian delegation also had the opportunity to visit the Qatari Aeronautical Training Academy, where they engaged in fruitful discussions to explore potential training opportunities. Additionally, they toured the Qatari Air Traffic Control Center and participated in a hands-on simulation exercise using an A320 aircraft, further enhancing their understanding of modern aviation practices.
The successful visit marks a significant step towards strengthening aviation ties between Liberia and Qatar, fostering a spirit of collaboration and mutual growth in the aviation sector. The Liberian delegation has since returned home, equipped with new insights and a roadmap for future cooperation.
