Will Take Over Regulatory Functions From Civil Aviation Department

In a move it says will resolve an inherent internal conflict in its Civil Aviation Department (CAD), the government of the Bahamas is establishing a Civil Aviation Authority to serve as its aviation regulatory agency, allowing the CAD focus on its role as a service provider.

Bahamian Prime Minister Perry Christie said that the move will also support his economic growth agenda "by ensuring that regulatory responsibilities are managed in a manner which contributes to economic development and activity while retaining The Bahamas' excellent reputation for safe and secure skies."

Bahamas Weekly reports that the new agency will be funded through an agreement with the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB). Prime Minister Christie said that the move will enhance the effectiveness of the civil aviation sector, sustain improvements in safety performance, and enhance public trust in the regulatory regime and the regulators.

Christie said that the effort forced the government to review the current system from "a number of different perspectives, including client interests, regulatory and policy responsibilities, leadership culture, and value for ... cost."

No date was set for the opening of the new agency. Chrisite's remarks came during an announcement of a $14 million IDB loan for the establishment of a new radar system and 3D tower simulator.

FMI: http://forms.bahamas.gov.bs/dp_agency.asp?aid=CAD