After years of dormancy, South Sudan has taken a significant step toward modernising its aviation sector, with authorities confirming the long-awaited activation of the control tower and Air Traffic Management (ATM) system at Juba International Airport.
The development marks the end of more than four years during which the ATM system remained idle despite being fully installed leaving a critical gap in the country’s ability to effectively monitor and manage its airspace.
Officials from the South Sudan Civil Aviation Authority said the system will become operational in the coming weeks as part of a broader transition to a new air traffic facility.
The move is expected to significantly improve coordination of flights, enhance safety oversight, and restore full airspace management capability.
Director General Dr Ayiei Garang Deng Ayiei confirmed the milestone, describing it as a turning point for South Sudan’s aviation industry.
He noted that once fully operational, the system will enable controllers to manage aircraft movements more efficiently and in line with international aviation standards.
The breakthrough follows high-level intervention led by Presidential Envoy Adut Kiir Mayardit, whose efforts facilitated the financial clearances needed to activate the long-stalled infrastructure.
Aviation experts say the activation of the control tower and ATM system will not only strengthen safety but also boost confidence among international carriers, potentially opening the door for increased air traffic and investment in the sector.
For a country heavily reliant on air transport due to limited road infrastructure, the upgrade represents more than a technical improvement—it is a critical step toward economic connectivity and global integration.
