The Kenya Association of Air Operators (KAAO) participated in the 7th East African Community Civil Aviation Safety and Security Oversight Agency (CASSOA) Aviation Symposium, held on 14th–15th May 2026 in Mombasa, Kenya. The high-level regional forum convened aviation regulators, service providers, development partners, and industry stakeholders from across the East African Community to deliberate on the future of aviation in the region.
Under the theme “Advancing Aviation Excellence: Towards Connected, Sustainable and Safer Skies”, the symposium served as a critical platform for advancing regional cooperation in aviation safety, security oversight, sustainability, and connectivity.
The discussions focused on strengthening regional aviation safety and security oversight systems, enhancing regulatory harmonisation, and supporting the coordinated implementation of ICAO Standards and Recommended Practices (SARPs) across Partner States. Key priorities highlighted included continuous capacity building, improved data sharing mechanisms, digital transformation, and the adoption of modern, risk-based oversight approaches to keep pace with the evolving aviation environment.
The event also underscored broader sector priorities such as sustainable aviation development, cybersecurity resilience, green aviation initiatives, and improved airspace efficiency—reflecting the region’s collective ambition to build a safer, more connected, and environmentally responsible aviation ecosystem.
The symposium was formally opened under the auspices of the East African Community framework and graced by senior regional aviation leadership, including the Principal Secretary, State Department for Aviation and Aerospace Development, Ms. Teresia Mbaika, alongside senior officials from Partner State Civil Aviation Authorities, the EAC Secretariat, and international aviation partners.
As emphasized by CASSOA, the agency continues to play a central coordinating role in harmonising aviation safety and security oversight across the region, working closely with national Civil Aviation Authorities and stakeholders to strengthen compliance, improve operational safety outcomes, and support regional integration.
KAAO’s participation reflects our continued commitment to engaging in regional policy and technical dialogue that shapes the future of aviation in East Africa. The association remains dedicated to representing the interests of air operators while contributing to the development of a safe, competitive, and sustainable aviation sector that supports trade, tourism, and regional integration.