South Sudan Pushes for Airspace Independence from Khartoum

(JUBA) – South Sudan has formally submitted its proposal to take control of its own airspace, a move set to replace the Khartoum Flight Information Region with a new Juba Flight Information Region.

The proposal was presented to the International Civil Aviation Organisation as an amendment to existing air navigation plans.

It establishes the Juba Flight Information Region and a corresponding Search and Rescue Region, transferring management of the upper airspace from Khartoum to Juba. This change confirms South Sudan’s sovereign responsibility for air traffic services over its territory.

The plan results from years of work and close coordination with neighbouring states, the South Sudan Civil Aviation Authority, ICAO, and other regional and international partners.

The new flight information region is designed to improve aviation safety, modernise air navigation services, and bring the country’s airspace management in line with international standards.

The proposal was circulated to nearly 100 states and more than five international bodies, including the African Civil Aviation Commission, the International Air Transport Association, and the International Federation of Air Line Pilots’ Associations. Sudan and South Sudan received the documents for information only.

The secretariat noted that the proposed boundaries of the Juba and Khartoum flight information regions are based on dimensions already approved by the ICAO Council. The adjustment also aligns with a recent ICAO Assembly resolution.

Officials described the submission as a major step in strengthening the country’s position within the global aviation community.