The approval follows a proposal submitted by the SSCAA, under the leadership of Director General Ayiei Garang Ayiei, during the ICAO Global Implementation Support Symposium held in Marrakech, Morocco, in April 2026.

According to the Authority, the creation of the Juba FIR transfers full responsibility for managing and regulating South Sudan’s airspace to national institutions. This includes overseeing air traffic services such as navigation assistance, flight information, weather updates, and emergency response coordination. The move effectively separates South Sudan’s airspace from Sudan’s Khartoum Flight Information Region, ending years of administrative dependence.

The SSCAA said the development represents a key step toward strengthening national sovereignty and aligning the country’s aviation systems with international standards. It also reflects years of technical work, including coordination with neighboring countries to ensure the safe and uninterrupted movement of aircraft across the region.

In addition, the Authority confirmed the approval of a Juba Search and Rescue Region (SRR), which will enhance the country’s ability to respond to aviation emergencies, and improve safety and efficiency in line with global best practices.

The Civil Aviation Authority described the approval as a turning point in South Sudan’s aviation sector, noting that it reinforces the country’s position as an independent entity within regional and global air navigation systems. It also acknowledged the contributions of technical experts, government institutions, and international partners who supported the process.