Aviation Authority says South Supreme airlines not yet cleared to resume flights

The South Sudan Civil Aviation Authority (SSCAA) says South Supreme Airlines has not been authorized to resume flight operations, days after the embattled airline announced the resumption of services following years of suspension.

Last week, South Supreme Airlines, which is linked to businessman Ayii Duang Ayii, announced that it was resuming flights after 13 years of suspension.

However, in a statement issued today, the civil aviation regulator said the airline’s management was only granted access to secure its assets and equipment that had been grounded over safety concerns.

The aviation regulator said no authorization was granted for the airline to resume or conduct flight operations until all identified safety concerns have been satisfactorily addressed and approved by the Authority of the State of Registry.

The authority also dismissed allegations by South Supreme Airlines that an aircraft belonging to the company was struck by bullets while still grounded.

It said it has no official report, evidence, or documentation submitted for verification or investigation.

The authority therefore said it cannot comment on claims that have not been formally presented through the appropriate channels.

The aviation regulator also cautioned aircraft owners and operators whose aircraft have been grounded due to safety deficiencies or airworthiness concerns to comply with regulations and ensure proper disposition of such aircraft in line with applicable regulations.

In March 2021, President Salva Kiir suspended the operations of South Supreme Airlines after its aircraft crashed in Pieri town in Uror County, Jonglei State.

In that crash, all 10 people on board were killed.