By Jessica Cox
The Liberia Airport Authority has announced an ambitious plan to achieve International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) certification for Roberts International Airport by the fourth quarter of 2026, a milestone officials say will strengthen aviation safety and position Liberia as a regional air transport hub.
The disclosure was made during the Ministry of Information’s regular press briefing, where managing director Ernest R. Hughes outlined the Authority’s modernization agenda.
He explained that ICAO certification involves verifying compliance with international standards governing operational safety, infrastructure quality, and service delivery.
Hughes said the initiative reflects Liberia’s commitment to transforming its airports into gateways for West Africa and beyond, supported by investments in safety systems, security enhancements, and customer service improvements.
Certification under ICAO standards would mark the first time a Liberian airport meets the globally recognized requirements, potentially attracting new airlines and increasing connectivity.
The certification process will assess adherence to standards in areas such as runway operations, fire and rescue capabilities, surveillance systems, and passenger facilities.
He confirmed that technical support is being provided by aviation consultants engaged to evaluate existing operations, train personnel, and align procedures with international best practices.
ICAO certification is widely recognized as a benchmark for aviation excellence and safety oversight.
Authorities noted that achieving compliance could enhance passenger confidence, improve operational efficiency, and support Liberia’s broader economic development objectives by facilitating trade and tourism.
The LAA emphasized that the modernization drive extends beyond certification. Ongoing initiatives include upgrades to fire and rescue equipment, enhanced security screening, and terminal improvements aimed at reducing congestion and improving passenger experiences.
Stakeholders welcomed the certification target but stressed the importance of sustained investment and institutional capacity building. Aviation experts observe that successful certification could strengthen Liberia’s position in regional and international air transport networks.
The Authority reaffirmed its commitment to transparency and stakeholder collaboration as it advances the certification process and broader modernization efforts.
