Establishment of regulatory framework and agency for the COMESA Unified Single Upper Airspace

For the establishment of the Regulatory Framework and Agency for COMESA Unified Single Upper Airspace, NTU acquired an accurate and comprehensive understanding of the institutional models of aviation in each Member State, including the degree of independence of air navigation institutions, through review of relevant documentation, assessment and evaluation. A specific analysis of international benchmarks in airspace integration was conducted, identifying constraints and best practices applicable to the COMESA programme. This analysis focused on organisational and political aspects, as well as technology, operations and safety. 

A set of recommendations to take further steps towards an effective regional legal and regulatory framework for safety was prepared. These recommendations were presented and discussed with representatives of the Member States at the 2nd Joint Workshop and 5th Project Steering Committee Meeting held in Zimbabwe. Recommendations on the most viable legal instrument for the implementation of the framework and the main aspects to be taken into account for the success of this initiative were presented. These included recommendations in relation to the signature of the agreement, the enforcement mechanisms, the development of rules and decision-making processes, and the awareness-raising and training concerned.