By Amin Kef (Ranger)

The Director General of the Sierra Leone Civil Aviation Authority (SLCAA), Musayeroh Barrie, has successfully spearheaded a new alliance with the French Civil Aviation Authority (DGAC), marking a significant stride toward elevating Sierra Leone’s aviation sector to international standards. This strategic partnership signals a bold new chapter for the country’s air transport industry.

Speaking on the collaboration, DG Musayeroh Barrie confirmed that formal discussions have begun with the French Civil Aviation Authority, aimed at expanding technical partnerships, knowledge transfer and regulatory support. “New collaborations with the French Civil Aviation Authority are underway,” she announced enthusiastically. “We also look forward to more investment in Sierra Leone’s aviation sector from the CRIT Group, owners of Groupe Europe Handling (GEH) and SHP.”

This move is seen as a testament to Musayeroh Barrie’s visionary leadership and strategic push to position the SLCAA as a forward-looking regulator in the global aviation ecosystem. Under her stewardship, the Authority has already undergone substantial reforms, including crucial steps towards meeting international compliance benchmarks, particularly those tied to Sierra Leone's removal from the EU Air Safety List.

The French Civil Aviation Authority (DGAC) is globally renowned for its role in enhancing aviation safety, sustainable innovation, including projects like hybrid-electric propulsion and regulatory excellence. By establishing cooperation with such a reputable agency, Sierra Leone is poised to benefit from technical expertise, capacity-building initiatives and global best practices.

DG Musayeroh Barrie underscored the importance of international collaboration, stating, “This is more than a partnership; it’s a shared vision for safe, secure and sustainable aviation in Sierra Leone.”

Further boosting the prospects of the sector, the SLCAA has also attracted strong interest from the CRIT Group, a global multiservice company with specialized portfolios in engineering, maintenance, airport ground handling and recruitment. Through its subsidiaries GEH and SHP, the CRIT Group is expected to channel investments into Sierra Leone’s aviation infrastructure, staff training and airport operational support.

- GEH (Groupe Europe Handling) is internationally certified by IATA and ICAO and offers best-in-class ground handling services across Europe.


- SHP, also affiliated with CRIT Group, is believed to be involved in specialized aviation engineering services, including critical aircraft systems and maintenance support.

The anticipated investment would mark a major milestone in the Government’s broader efforts to attract foreign direct investment into critical infrastructure sectors, particularly aviation, which has been a priority under the current administration.

Since assuming office, Musayeroh Barrie has prioritized aviation safety, institutional reform and international cooperation. Her proactive engagement with global stakeholders and industry leaders has positioned SLCAA as a credible and reform-minded authority, earning it increasing recognition on the global stage.

The Director General also emphasized the SLCAA’s ongoing commitment to staff development and training in line with international aviation safety and service delivery standards. “As we continue to reform, we remain committed to building local capacity and ensuring that SLCAA is a model aviation authority in West Africa,” she said.

The developments mark a turning point for Sierra Leone’s aviation future, with SLCAA positioning itself as a hub of progress and partnership in the sub-region. The twin pillars of regulatory collaboration with France and prospective investment from the CRIT Group signal a brighter horizon for air travel and aviation business in the country.

With Director General Musayeroh Barrie at the helm, Sierra Leone’s skies are not only open they’re on a course for sustained transformation and excellence.

  https://thecalabashnewspaper.com/facilitating-strong-interest-from-crit-group-slcaa-dg-spearheads-new-alliance-with-french-civil-aviation-authority/