The new IATA Operational Safety Audit (IOSA) certification will open the gates for national airline, Air Botswana, to expand into the regional market and collaborate with international airlines.
Air Botswana has finally regained the International Air Transport Association (IATA) membership following a successful completion of the IATA earlier this year.
In 2008, Air Botswana voluntarily resigned from IATA in 2008 after failing to close all findings of a 2007 audit.
“The airline has been working hard to be counted among the more than 200 IATA members that comprise 84 percent of total air traffic,” revealed Joe Motse, Air Botswana Commercial Director.
IATA approved the airline membership on July 24; the IOSA is a prerequisite for IATA membership.
Motse said the aim is to compete with international airlines by 2014. The main focus for airlines all over the world undoubtedly is safety; therefore, Air Botswana will benefit to be continually assisted to meet industry standards as an IATA member.
“It is possible to lose the membership but we are determined to ensure that we comply with the standards and retain the membership, which is reviewed every two years,” Motse said.
Meanwhile, technical failures of Air Botswana aircraft continue to scare its passengers following yet other two mechanical incidents that took place in a space of less than a week. The aircraft experienced engine failure as it was approaching OR Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg.
The causes of the incidents are still under investigations by the Civil Aviation Authority and the Ministry of Transport and communication.
No injuries were reported as the pilot noticed loss of power from the Number 2 engine as the airliner landed safely and proceeded to the terminal with all the 47 passengers and crew evacuated safely into the terminal through the normal process.
