SSCAA order targets grounded aircraft at Juba Airport
The South Sudan Civil Aviation Authority (SSCAA) has issued a formal directive instructing all aircraft operators at Juba International Airport to remove grounded, unserviceable, or non-operational aircraft within 30 days.
In the circular, the regulator links the measure to safety, security, and operational concerns, arguing that aircraft left in movement areas and other non-designated locations can create risks for airport activity.
Safety and security risks cited in official circular
SSCAA says abandoned or non-functional aircraft have been found occupying movement areas, taxiways, aprons, and other spaces not intended for long-term storage, affecting both safety management and day-to-day operations.
The authority frames the directive as an aerodrome safety step, aimed at keeping critical areas clear for aircraft movement and airport services at South Sudan’s main international gateway.
Civil Aviation Act 2012 and ICAO standards underpin directive
According to the notice, the directive is issued under the Civil Aviation Authority Act of 2012, as amended, and is aligned with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) Standards and Recommended Practices.
The circular stresses that taxiways, runways, and movement areas are not permitted for aircraft parking “under any circumstances,” setting a clear compliance baseline for operators.
Operators told to coordinate towing, repair, export or disposal
“All aircraft operators with grounded or unserviceable aircraft at Juba International Airport are hereby directed to remove such aircraft within thirty (30) days from the date of this circular,” the notice states.
Operators are instructed to work with Airport Operations Management and relevant authorities on recovery, towing, relocation, repair, export, or disposal, and to follow approved procedures during implementation.
Compliance deadline backed by enforcement measures
SSCAA warns that non-compliance within the stated timeframe may trigger enforcement actions, including removal of aircraft at the operator’s expense and recovery of associated costs.
The regulator also signals that additional measures could be taken where necessary to protect aerodrome safety and maintain operational efficiency. The circular took effect immediately upon issuance.
Directive signed by SSCAA Director General Dr. Ayiei Garang Deng Ayiei
The directive was signed by Dr. Ayiei Garang Deng Ayiei, Director General of the South Sudan Civil Aviation Authority, and was copied to institutions including the Ministries of Transport and Interior.
Other recipients listed include the National Security Service, Aviation Security (AVSEC), and airport management, reflecting a multi-agency approach to enforcement and coordination at the airport.
Broader push for aviation safety and airport efficiency
The move is presented as part of SSCAA’s wider effort to strengthen aviation safety oversight, improve airport efficiency, and reinforce compliance with international aviation standards.
For passengers and airline partners, the underlying objective is a more orderly airside environment, with clearer movement areas and fewer operational constraints linked to idle aircraft storage.