Kenya today launched a landmark three-day Combined Workshop on Loss of Control In-Flight (LOC-I), Upset Prevention and Recovery Training (UPRT), and Aircraft Operations, reinforcing its position as a continental leader in aviation safety.
Hosted in partnership with the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) Eastern and Southern African (ESAF) and Western and Central African (WACAF) Regional Offices, the event opened with high-level addresses from the Director General of the Kenya Civil Aviation Authority (KCAA) and ICAO’s ESAF Regional Director.
The workshop marks a critical step in addressing LOC-I — one of the leading causes of fatal aviation accidents worldwide. Since 2015, Kenya has served as the RASG-AFI Champion for LOC-I, spearheading regional efforts to prevent in-flight upsets through training, policy, and operational improvements.
“Addressing Loss of Control In-Flight requires not just technical proficiency, but a strong culture of safety and collaboration among all aviation stakeholders,” said Mr. Lawrence Amukono, speaking on behalf of the KCAA Director General during the opening ceremony.
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Mr. Papa Issa Mbengue, representing ICAO’s ESAF Regional Director, praised Kenya’s sustained leadership:
“ICAO commends Kenya’s continued dedication and partnership in promoting regional safety priorities. Collaborative efforts such as this workshop are fundamental to achieving our shared goal of a safer and more resilient African sky.”
The intensive program brings together pilots, regulators, air traffic controllers, and safety experts from across Africa to master advanced UPRT techniques and refine operational protocols. Participants will engage in scenario-based training designed to prevent and recover from unexpected aircraft upsets — situations where pilots lose control due to spatial disorientation, system failures, or extreme weather.
By integrating technical skills with operational best practices, the workshop aims to significantly reduce LOC-I incidents, protect passengers and crews, and strengthen the resilience of Africa’s aviation ecosystem.
This initiative builds on nearly a decade of progress under Kenya’s RASG-AFI championship, driving harmonized safety standards and fostering a unified continental response to one of aviation’s most persistent threats.
