On 18 May 2016, UNAMID’s Aviation Section, Sector South, handed over an Air traffic VHF radio set to Nyala Airport authorities, in the presence of the Head of Office,  Berhanemeskel Naga; the Director of Nyala Airport, Mohamed Nur Marigni, as well as government officials and UNAMID Staff.  The initiative, part of the Mission’s efforts to work with state governments in improving key infrastructure across Darfur, aimed to promote aviation safety and air traffic control in Nyala Airport.

The air traffic VHF radio set will be used by the Air Traffic Controller (ATC) to establish radio communication with all airplanes, which will help having efficient movement of aircraft. In order to prevent collisions, ATC enforces traffic separation rules, which ensures that each airplane maintains a minimum amount of space around it at all times.

In his remarks at the handover ceremony, Mr. Naga confirmed the Mission’s readiness to continue its support and cooperation with the Airport authorities in South Darfur.

On his part, Mr. Marigni commended UNAMID for handing over the VHF radio set to the Nyala Airport. “This radio equipment will play an important role when it comes to communications services in the airport. We look forward to having further cooperation with UNAMID,” stated Mr. Mohamed.

UNAMID Air Operations Officer, Sulaiman Kalisa, explained that the equipment will provide service to the ground-based controllers who direct airplanes on the ground through controlled airspace, and can also provide advisory services to aircraft in non-controlled airspace.

The primary purpose of ATC worldwide is to prevent collisions, organize and expedite the flow of air traffic, and provide information and other support for pilots.