ATAZ Earns ICAO TRAINAIR PLUS Bronze Accreditation

Rutendo Mazhindu

Zim Now Reporter

The Aviation Training Academy of Zimbabwe has reached a significant milestone with its accreditation as an ICAO TRAINAIR PLUS Bronze Member, a prestigious recognition by the International Civil Aviation Organization.

This achievement, officially conferred on February 13, 2025, at the Global Implementation Support Symposium in Abu Dhabi, UAE, positions ATAZ as a key player in enhancing aviation training in Zimbabwe and addressing critical skills gaps in the sector.

Zimbabwe was represented by the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Transport and Infrastructural Development, Eng. P.J. Makumbe, who received the accreditation plaque from ICAO Secretary General, Mr. Juan Carlos Salazar.

Transport and Infrastructural Development Minister, Honourable Felix Mhona, hailed the accreditation as a major step forward for the country’s aviation industry.

“This recognition is a testament to our commitment to aligning Zimbabwe’s aviation sector with international standards,” Minister Mhona said. ATAZ is now poised to increase access to high-quality aviation training, addressing the critical shortage of skilled personnel in the industry.”

The accreditation places Zimbabwe firmly on the global aviation map, with ATAZ becoming the sole provider of ICAO-certified aviation training in the country. Minister Mhona emphasized that the certification will help ensure Zimbabwe’s aviation training meets world-class benchmarks, improving safety, security, and efficiency in the sector.

ATAZ, which was launched as an ICAO Approved Training Organisation in May 2023, has experienced rapid growth. The accreditation aligns with ICAO’s 2019 Assembly Resolution A40-25 Appendix D, which aims to maintain a competent and qualified aviation workforce through structured training programs.

Minister Mhona highlighted that ATAZ’s role will extend beyond training to foster research, innovation, and collaboration with local higher education institutions through Memoranda of Understanding. The academy is set to establish cutting-edge training facilities that will rival leading aviation academies worldwide.

The Minister expressed gratitude to all stakeholders who contributed to the achievement, including President Dr. E.D. Mnangagwa for his leadership in promoting economic diplomacy, which has facilitated international cooperation in aviation training. He also praised the Civil Aviation Authority of Zimbabwe (CAAZ), the ATAZ management team, aviation operators, and the entire aviation community for their unwavering dedication.

The ICAO TRAINAIR PLUS certification is awarded only to institutions that meet the highest global standards for aviation training, marking ATAZ’s significant progress in its mission to cultivate the next generation of aviation professionals in Zimbabwe and beyond.