Concerned with the need strengthen aviation oversight among member states, the Banjul Accord Group Accident Investigation Agency (BAGAIA) has harped on the importance of independent Accident Investigation Authorities, saying that it will enhance safety.
Commissioner of BAGAIA, Engineer Charles Erhueh, stressed this while making a presentation at the International Society of Air Safety Investigators (ISASI) seminar in Marriot Lisbon Hotel, Portugal, from October 1 to 3, 2024
According to him, despite challenges such as funding and adherence to resolutions, there are still numerous opportunities for improvement through partnerships.
In his presentation titled “The Benefits of BAGAIA Assistance Missions to States in the AFI Region and Beyond,” Erhueh emphasised the importance of BAGAIA’s role in enhancing aviation safety through collaborative efforts.
He also addressed the challenges that states face in creating independent Accident Investigation Authorities (AIAs), including political resistance, a lack of skilled personnel, and slow legislative processes.
Nonetheless, he highlighted that BAGAIA remains committed to helping states establish these vital bodies.
Erhueh also stressed the importance of partnerships, expanded membership, and improved funding access across member states. He noted that while some states face difficulties, the creation of independent AIAs remains essential for objective accident investigations.
“Many states are reluctant to establish independent bodies due to fears of job loss among civil servants and resistance from civil aviation authorities.
“This reluctance, however, must be overcome to meet international standards and enhance regional cooperation,” he averred.
In addition to highlighting the challenges, the Commissioner outlined the objectives of BAGAIA’s technical assistance missions to member and non-member states.
He pointed out that these missions align with the International Civil Aviation Organisation’s (ICAO’s) Annex 13, which sets the global standard for investigating aircraft accidents and serious incidents.
He concluded by urging both member and non-member states to institutionalise or join regional accident investigation bodies like BAGAIA.
This, he explained would not only help states meet their international obligations but also improve their overall aviation safety oversight capabilities.
Partnerships, access to funding, and expanded membership, as he emphasised throughout the presentation, remain crucial for achieving these goals.
Over the years, the BAGAIA region has conducted 59 accident investigations, 61 serious incident investigations, and issued 287 safety recommendations. Through this work, the agency has contributed significantly to improving aviation safety across the region.
ISASI is dedicated to advancing air safety by promoting the exchange of ideas, experiences, and information about aircraft accident investigation and safety management.
Over 300 delegates attended the event, which aimed to foster collaboration and learning in the global aviation community.