N$652m rescue plan for outdated aviation systems

Government has committed N$652 million to replace the country’s ageing air navigation systems.

“The current radar and air traffic management systems, installed in 2010, have reached the end of their 15-year lifecycle and must be replaced," works and transport minister Veikko Nekundi recently confirmed.

He said N$252 million has been allocated for 2025/26, with a total of N$652 million earmarked over a three-year rolling budget period for the overhaul initiative.

Nekundi provided this update while presenting the budget allocation for the department of transport, Vote 24, which has been allocated N$2 billion.

Of this, N$285 million has been set aside for the operational budget, while N$1.8 billion is earmarked for development investments.

Within this allocation, the air transport administration programme remains a critical pillar, focusing on aircraft accident investigations and civil aviation air navigation services.

Sufficient funding

The sub-programme for civil aviation air navigation services has been allocated N$86.2 million, with the Namibia Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) tasked with safeguarding Namibia’s airspace and ensuring high-quality navigation services.

“The NCAA has contracted an Air Navigation System systems consulting firm to undertake a technical feasibility assessment and produce tender-ready procurement documentation," the minister said.

"I am pleased to report that the NCAA now has sufficient funding to commence the replacement process."

Nekundi added that the planned technological upgrades will allow Namibia to expand its control over strategic airspace, including oceanic zones and areas currently managed by South Africa.

Government has also allocated N$47 million as an operational budget for the NCAA for the 2026/2027 financial year.

“Although additional resources are desirable, the authority will operate efficiently within the allocated resources without compromising safety and security standards,” Nekundi explained.

The minister stressed that air transport remains the fastest mode of moving cargo and passengers, playing a central role in driving economic growth, tourism and international trade.

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