The Seychelles Civil Aviation Authority (SCAA) is reinforcing the country’s commitment to aviation safety and international regulatory compliance through the hosting of an International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) Regional Office Safety Team (ROST) Assistance Mission, that took place in April 2026.
The mission marks an important step in strengthening the effectiveness of Seychelles’ aviation safety oversight framework. It is intended to provide targeted technical guidance and expert support, with a focus on improving the State’s level of implementation of ICAO Standards and Recommended Practices (SARPs) through enhanced legislation, regulatory systems and institutional arrangements.
The outcomes of the ROST Assistance Mission will directly contribute to SCAA’s corrective action plans and support preparations for a full ICAO audit expected in 2027/2028. This engagement reflects SCAA’s proactive and structured approach to continuous improvement, regulatory readiness and alignment with evolving global aviation safety requirements.
“The ICAO ROST Assistance Mission represents a valuable opportunity for Seychelles to further strengthen its aviation safety oversight systems and reinforce compliance with international standards. It represents a strategic opportunity. SCAA welcomes the continued support and technical expertise provided by ICAO, as we remain fully committed to safeguarding the safety, security and integrity of our aviation sector through continuous improvement and effective regulatory oversight.” Chief Executive Officer, SCAA, Garry Albert.
The mission was led by Mr. Papa Issa Mbengue and supported by regional aviation safety experts Mr. Zewdu Teklay Aregawi, Mr. Elisha Omuya, and Mr. Bedan Thendu. The team brings extensive regional and international experience in aviation safety oversight, providing valuable technical insight and assessment throughout the week-long engagement.
During the mission, the ROST team reviewed key components of Seychelles’ aviation safety system. These include primary aviation legislation such as the SCAA Act 2024 and the Civil Aviation Act 2005, civil aviation regulations aligned with the 19 ICAO Annexes and derived from the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) framework, as well as the organizational structure, functions and responsibilities of the newly established SCAA. Emphasis was placed on the legal and regulatory framework, with important feedback provided on strengthening national processes to ensure the timely development and implementation of technical regulations, noting this as a key area requiring further enhancement.
The review also covered personnel licensing and training, aircraft operations, airworthiness, air navigation services, aerodromes and ground aids, and the implementation of the State Safety Programme.
The current mission builds on continued cooperation between Seychelles and ICAO, following the last off-site validation mission held in November 2022, and supports sustained institutional development and progressive strengthening of national oversight capabilities.
Through the hosting of the ICAO ROST Assistance Mission, SCAA reaffirms its commitment to continuous aviation safety excellence, effective regulatory oversight and close collaboration with international partners.
About SCAA
The Seychelles Civil Aviation Authority (SCAA) is the national regulatory body established under the SCAA Act 2024 to oversee and manage all civil aviation activities in the Republic of Seychelles. Its core mandate includes ensuring the safety, security, and sustainability of civil aviation through effective regulation, oversight, and enforcement. SCAA is responsible for the certification and licensing of aviation personnel and service providers, the regulation of air navigation and airport services, and the development and implementation of aviation policies and regulations. It also plays a key role in negotiating and facilitating international air service agreements. Since its separation from airport operations in 2024, SCAA has operated as an independent authority focused solely on regulatory functions, in alignment with ICAO standards and best practices
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