Toga Nasile receives his ICAO 052 Certificate from Fiji Airports CEO, Mesake Nawari at the graduation ceremony in Nadi.

Mesake Nawari, Fiji Airports Chief Executive Officer officiated the air traffic control graduation ceremony, after five air controllers graduated from a 12-week intensive aerodrome control course, which enhanced their understanding in navigating complex airspace scenarios.

He says that the ICAO 052 training was vital in teaching the fundamental knowledge and skill necessary to enable the five licensed Flight Information Services Officers, in progressing to becoming a licensed Aerodrome Controller at the Control Tower.

He also noted that it had been over a decade since the officers had been with the Fiji Airports Air Traffic Management team. The officers will undergo a four month on-the-job training as part of the licensing requirements straight after graduation.

He has also highlighted that the trainings were paramount in the well-being of Fiji Airports, meeting the demands of the airport’s dynamic industry, also whilst undergoing intensive instruction in handling complex airspace scenarios, manage air traffic flow and ensuring the seamless, safe movement of flights.

He has also noted that in building a positive safety culture, it encourages innovation, developing talents in air traffic control, enabling the air traffic team in being better prepared for the brighter and busier skies ahead.

He concluded his address by stating that he would like to see more gender diversity in the senior levels in the ATM team, and also within the courses in the future; Today, at least 43 percent of the ATM staff are women and among the graduates are Alatini Bera, Josese Baleiwai, Paula Toga, Savenaca Tuilevuka and Toga Nasile.