22/05/2026
PRESS STATEMENT
South Sudan Civil Aviation Authority (SSCAA)
The South Sudan Civil Aviation Authority (SSCAA) wishes to clarify recent public concerns and discussions regarding the official opening of the Air Traffic Management (ATM) System and the management of South Sudan’s airspace.
South Sudan gained full sovereignty over its national airspace on 9 July 2011, the same day the Republic of South Sudan became an independent country.
Following independence, South Sudan entered into a temporary technical arrangement with the Sudan Civil Aviation Authority for the management of air traffic services. This arrangement was necessary due to limited human capacity, infrastructure, air traffic systems, and operational readiness at that time.
Over the years, SSCAA has worked closely with international aviation partners and has made significant progress in building the required technical capacity, infrastructure, regulations, and trained personnel necessary to safely manage South Sudan’s airspace and air traffic services.
The South Sudan Air Traffic Management communication systems have been fully operational and functioning properly for the past four weeks prior to the official inauguration.
The public is also reminded that the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) does not give or own any country’s airspace. Airspace sovereignty belongs to every independent state under international law.
The mandate of ICAO is to support global aviation safety, security, efficiency, and compliance with international aviation standards and recommended practices (SARPs). ICAO’s role is to assess and support countries in ensuring they meet the technical and safety requirements for air navigation services.
In the case of South Sudan, ICAO has been working with SSCAA regarding the technical and operational arrangements for the establishment and operationalization of the Juba Flight Information Region (Juba FIR), including safety oversight, coordination with neighbouring states, and air traffic management procedures.
The operationalization of the new Air Traffic Management System marks an important milestone in strengthening South Sudan’s aviation sector, improving safety, and enhancing national capacity in managing civil air traffic operations.
SSCAA kindly encourages members of the public and stakeholders to seek clarification from qualified aviation professionals and the technical aviation team regarding aviation matters, rather than making assumptions or spreading incorrect information.
Aviation is a highly technical and safety-sensitive sector that requires accurate information and professional understanding.
SSCAA remains committed to working closely with ICAO, regional aviation bodies, neighbouring countries, and all aviation stakeholders to ensure safe, secure, and efficient management of South Sudan’s airspace.
Issued by:
South Sudan Civil Aviation Authority (SSCAA)
