Niël Terblanché
In preparation for the Presidential and National Assembly elections in two weeks and the special voting set to take place today, the Namibia Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has announced restricted airspace within the Windhoek Flight Information Region (FYWF) on election-related dates.
According to Toska Sem, the executive director of the NCAA, the decision aims to ensure heightened safety and security during this critical period, as detailed in the Aeronautical Information Circular (AIC) No. 69/2024.
Sem stated that the NCAA’s directive, issued under Part 71 of the Namibian Civil Aviation Regulations, will temporarily ban all remotely piloted aircraft systems (RPAS) operations, including drones, unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), and gliders, Used for private, commercial, or recreational purposes.
“The restrictions will apply on 13 November, as well as from 26 to 28 November 2024, the days surrounding the elections,” she said.
According to Sem, these measures reflect a commitment to safeguard Namibian airspace during times of increased public interest and activity.
“The cooperation of aviation operators and enthusiasts will play a vital role in ensuring that safety protocols are upheld. The NCAA appreciates the aviation community and the general public’s commitment to upholding these restrictions for national security during such a significant time for our nation,” she said.
Sem added that the directive comes as part of broader security preparations ahead of the election period, with the NCAA urging all stakeholders to observe these temporary airspace restrictions.
She indicated that details of the restrictions are available in the Aeronautical Information Circular, accessible on the NCAA’s official website.
Aviation operators and the public have been urged to contact the Air Navigation Safety Services Oversight team at the NCAA for further inquiries or clarification.
