Kenya Reinforces Aviation Safety Leadership with Regional LOC-I and Upset Prevention Training

In a significant step to bolster aviation safety across Africa, Kenya today inaugurated a pivotal three-day Combined Workshop on Loss of Control In-Flight (LOC-I), Upset Prevention and Recovery Training (UPRT), and Aircraft Operations (Ops). The event, hosted in collaboration with the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) ESAF (Eastern and Southern African) and WACAF (Western and Central African) Regional Offices, underscores a shared commitment to mitigating one of aviation’s most critical risks.

The workshop was officially opened by the Director General of the Kenya Civil Aviation Authority (KCAA) and the Regional Director of ICAO’s ESAF Office, marking a continued partnership aimed at enhancing regional safety standards.

This initiative is part of a series first launched in 2015 and solidifies Kenya’s pivotal role as the RASG-AFI (Regional Aviation Safety Group – Africa and Indian Ocean) Champion for LOC-I. The country’s sustained leadership is instrumental in driving a unified strategy to advance aviation safety throughout the continent.

In his opening remarks, Mr. Lawrence Amukono, representing the KCAA Director General, emphasized the multifaceted approach required to address LOC-I. “Addressing Loss of Control In-Flight requires not just technical proficiency, but a strong culture of safety and collaboration among all aviation stakeholders,” he stated.

Echoing this sentiment, Mr. Papa Issa Mbengue, representing the ICAO ESAF Regional Director, commended the ongoing partnership. “ICAO commends Kenya’s continued dedication and partnership in promoting regional safety priorities. Collaborative efforts such as this workshop are fundamental to achieving our shared goal of a safer and more resilient African sky.”

The combined workshop brings together aviation professionals, regulators, and operators to deepen their understanding of LOC-I prevention and recovery techniques. By focusing on both technical training (UPRT) and operational procedures, the event aims to equip participants with the advanced skills necessary to prevent and manage unexpected aircraft upsets, thereby saving lives and safeguarding assets.