EAC to start forging single air space this year

The East African Community (EAC) has decided to start forging its envisaged single air space this year, first with a harmonization review in August and then with the establishment of a common institution in December.

The decision was revealed over the weekend by the Arusha-based EAC, according to reports reaching here on Sunday.

Tanzanian Foreign Minister Jakaya Kikwete, who is chairing the EAC Council of Ministers, said in the northern Tanzanian town that review and harmonization of aviation regulations would be finalized in August among the three EAC member states of Kenya, Uganda and Tanzania.

He made the remarks while addressing an East African Legislative Assembly session in Arusha.

In December this year, the three countries are expected to form what will be known as the EAC Civil Aviation Safety and Security Oversight Organization.

Kenya, Uganda and Tanzania are scheduled to meet in Kampala next month to review the existing Bilateral Air Services Agreements to provide for broader liberalization in the civil aviation of the region.

The three countries are currently undertaking economic convergence before moving on to forge an East African Federation in between 2010 and 2013.

Source: Xinhua