THE Julius Nyerere International Airport (JNIA) has been honoured with the prestigious Airport Council International (ACI) Safety Award 2024 in category one, recognizing its commitment to prioritizing safety.

 Announced yesterday in Johannesburg, South Africa, the award marks a significant milestone for Tanzania's aviation sector, reinforcing its reputation as a leader in airport safety both regionally and globally.

Prof Godius Kahyarara, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Transport, accepted the award on behalf of the Tanzania Airports Authority (TAA) which manages and operates JNIA.

He said that the achievement highlights the country's unwavering dedication to maintaining the highest safety and security standards for international air travellers.

The ACI Safety Award is one of the most esteemed recognitions in the global aviation industry, awarded to airports that demonstrate exemplary safety performance and full compliance with international safety standards.

"This award not only underscores JNIA’s exceptional safety record but also positions Tanzania at the forefront of global aviation," said Prof. Kahyarara. "It reaffirms our commitment to ensuring that Tanzania is recognized as a safe, reliable and world-class destination for air travel, which is crucial for boosting tourism, attracting foreign investment and promoting economic growth."

TAA has consistently focused on operational excellence, investing in advanced technologies, staff training and infrastructure improvements to uphold stringent safety standards.

"This award is an honour for TAA and reflects our continued efforts to ensure safety and security of all travellers passing through JNIA," TAA said in a statement.

The authority further assured its commitment to maintaining the highest operational standards and enhancing Tanzania’s aviation sector.

The ACI, representing airports worldwide, advocates for safety, security and sustainability in the aviation industry. The recognition further positions JNIA as a beacon of safety in aviation, promising significant benefits for Tanzania, including increased tourist arrivals and greater international confidence in the nation’s main airport.