Aviation and Meteorology sectors to improve weather preparedness for safer skies
Meteorological experts and Aviation professionals meet to compare notes for flight safety
Uganda Civil Aviation Authority (UCAA), in partnership with the Department of Meteorological Services (DMS) under the Ministry of Water and Environment, is hosting the Aviation Weather Awareness Workshop at Imperial Golf View Hotel, Entebbe. The two-day workshop, running from 14–15 August 2025, has brought together key players in the aviation and meteorology sectors to strengthen collaboration and improve weather preparedness for safer skies.
In his opening remarks, Uganda CAA’s Director General, Mr. Fred K. Bamwesigye, welcomed delegates from the Uganda National Meteorological Authority, representatives of airlines, aviation professionals, and other stakeholders. He stressed the vital role of weather in aviation safety and operational efficiency.
“Accurate, timely, and reliable weather information is crucial to flight safety, operational efficiency, and planning from take-off to landing. Severe storms, low visibility, and wind shear can disrupt schedules and compromise safety. This is why fostering coordination between meteorological experts and aviation professionals is essential,” Mr. Bamwesigye said.
He highlighted that Uganda CAA’s guiding principle remains Safety, Safety & Safety, adding that this workshop aims to enhance stakeholder capacity to access, interpret, and apply meteorological data effectively.
The DG noted that as aircraft movements continue to increase from 21,584 in 2021 to 32,552 in 2024 safety measures must be strengthened to match operational growth. He called on participants to share knowledge, experiences, and solutions that will advance Uganda’s aviation safety and efficiency.
Delivering his opening speech, the Commissioner for Meteorology, Dr. Bob Alex Ogwang, underscored the importance of integrating weather data into operational decision-making across the aviation industry.
“Weather information is only as valuable as the action it inspires. By working together, we can turn forecasts into proactive safety measures that protect lives, equipment, and schedules,” Dr. Ogwang said.
He shared updates on Uganda’s growing meteorological capabilities, including state-of-the-art weather radars, wind shear detection systems, satellite imagery advancements, and improved forecasting models. He urged stakeholders to continue investing in both technology and human capacity to ensure weather awareness is deeply embedded in aviation operations.
The workshop will cover:
- Strengthening inter-agency collaboration between meteorology and aviation
- Building consensus on aviation weather mandates
- Improving operational efficiency through accurate forecasting
- Enhancing awareness of aviation weather safety protocols
- Showcasing advancements in weather monitoring tools and data usage
Delegates will also take part in practical sessions and discussions to develop strategies for applying weather information more effectively in daily aviation operations.
This workshop reflects Uganda CAA’s commitment to building strong partnerships with national and regional stakeholders in pursuit of a safer, more efficient aviation sector.
“Let this event not just be a meeting, but a milestone in enhancing aviation weather preparedness in Uganda and the region,” Mr. Bamwesigye concluded.
