Šćekić: The Civil Aviation Agency's control mechanism has been strengthened

The Civil Aviation Agency (CAA) has improved its work system and control mechanism, especially in the past year, and is fulfilling its regulatory and supervisory role obligations in a quality and continuous manner, said its director, Ivan Šćekić.

"The CAA contributes to Montenegro recording impressive results in the efficient implementation of the highest aviation standards and recommended practices of the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), as well as the regulatory requirements of the European Union (EU), which is of particular importance for citizens, the country and its European path," Šćekić told the Mina-business agency.

Speaking about numerous implemented and planned activities that lead to the improvement of the safety and security system in air traffic, Šćekić also emphasized this year's priority of airport certification.

He announced that, although a lot has been done in a period of almost two years, there is still a lot of work to be done, including the certification of international airports in Montenegro.

"We will work on completing this process with representatives of the Airports of Montenegro, which includes the certification of Tivat Airport, as well as the recertification of Podgorica Airport in accordance with EU requirements. This work is a priority above all priorities and it is necessary for the process to be completed in a quality and efficient manner by the end of the year," said Šćekić.

He stated that, with the support of the Agency Council and the dedication of employees, what was promised is being realized - the control mechanism has been strengthened, i.e. supervision and inspections have been significantly intensified, the management system has been improved, the dynamics of adopting regulatory and internal acts and harmonization with European and international regulations and standards have improved.

Šćekić said that thorough work was carried out, within the jurisdiction of the CAA, at the level of expert support for the drafting of the new Air Traffic Law, which is in the final procedures for adoption, and significant progress is expected in that area.

"We are also returning aviation personnel to Montenegro. We have strengthened professional services, including engineers with aviation experience to supervise the work of the aviation industry, as well as a legal team. During the inspection in February last year, the expert team of the EU Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) positively assessed the fact that we have strengthened personnel with aviation experience, the readiness of management to further improve the system and cooperate with other aviation authorities," said Šćekić.

He emphasized that, in addition to the absolute implementation of regulations, the most important investments are for the development of aviation.

Šćekić pointed out that the CAA, within its jurisdiction, donates significant funds for the development of the search and rescue system.

He recalled that the Agency conducted all necessary checks and supervision of the aircraft, whose introduction into the Montenegrin fleet was approved six months ago, thus ensuring the highest level of safety.

Among the most significant activities of the CAA was last year's successfully completed EASA inspection.

Šćekić said that Montenegro's progress in the field of aviation was recognized in the European Commission's report, supported by the results of the EASA inspection, which confirmed the good level of implementation of European safety requirements in the field of aircraft crew licensing.

He reminded that the Agency is not financed from the state budget and that this institution of international repute plays an important role in regulating and supervising civil aviation.

"In cooperation with the Ministry of Transport, the Government and the aviation industry, we are continuously working to preserve and improve the conditions for the safe, secure and efficient functioning of air traffic," said Šćekić.

He added that he is encouraged by the position of Montenegrin partners in aviation, recalling the assessment of the French Ambassador to Montenegro that the Agency's organizational and financial independence is important, because the capacity to attract and retain competent staff with experience in aviation is crucial for the reliable and effective work of the CAA.

"This is precisely, as indicated by our French partners, in order to maintain EU standards and guarantee the safety and security of Montenegrin air traffic," concluded Šćekić.