Leaders in Uganda’s aviation sector have expressed commitment to leverage digital technologies to transform the aviation sector.
This commitment was made during the 15th International Federation of Air Traffic Safety Electronics Associations(IFATSEA) African Region meeting at Speke Resort Convention Centre in Munyonyo.
The meeting was held under the theme, “Digital Transformation in Communication Navigation Surveillance (CNS)/Air Traffic Management (ATM): Strengthening Air Traffic Safety Electronics Personnel (ATSEP) Competencies for a Safer and Sustainable future.”
According to the president of the Uganda Air Traffic Safety Electronics Association (UGATSEA), Isaac Kamugo, the three day meeting underscored the role of adopting cutting-edge technology by aviation engineers.
“We discussed how AI can impact on cyber security but also the use of drones to assist us in our operations and ensuring efficiency of our systems. We need to take advantage of AI within our operations,”Kamugo.
“We also discussed the use of drones which are currently in use in other files but not aviation. Apart from regulations that cater for operation of drones, we haven’t seen much use of them within aviation. As an African region, we are now focused on using these drones to carry out of the activities including checking our navigation systems that guide the aircraft and ensure they are safe within the sky.”
He said these activities are currently done by expensive aircraft but said with drones they can do this work in a more economically viable way.
The president of the Uganda Air Traffic Safety Electronics Association said these recommendations calls for collaboration between the various countries, noting that regional committees have been set up to draft and come up with clear plans on the issues of cyber security and taking advantage of AI within their operations.
The Director General of the Uganda Civil Aviation Authority, Fred Bamwesigye said over the course of the meeting, they explored vital themes around digital transformation and the need to strengthen competencies to support a safer and sustainable future for aviation in Africa.
“We have witnessed a powerful exchange of ideas, experiences, and some of the innovations we are undertaking at Uganda Civil Aviation Authority. The discussions have been rich, the technical sessions enlightening, and the shared experiences truly inspiring,” Bamwesigye said.
“ I am particularly proud that Uganda has played host to this significant event. It has been an honour to welcome delegates from across the continent and beyond to the Pearl of Africa, a land known not only for its natural beauty, but also for the warmth and hospitality of its people.”