Published: March 4, 2026
MONROVIA — Liberia’s main international gateway could achieve global aviation certification for the first time under an aggressive modernization plan unveiled Tuesday by Liberia Airport Authority Managing Director Ernest R. Hughes, who outlined sweeping safety, security, and infrastructure reforms aimed at bringing Roberts International Airport in line with international standards by 2026.
Speaking at the Ministry of Information’s regular press briefing, Hughes said the Authority has launched a comprehensive upgrade program designed to secure International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) certification for the airport, a milestone that would formally confirm compliance with global aviation safety and operational standards.
If achieved, the certification would mark a significant step for Liberia’s aviation sector, potentially strengthening the country’s ability to attract international airlines and repositioning Roberts International Airport as a competitive gateway in West Africa.
“Our vision is to transform Liberia’s airports into vibrant hubs that serve as gateways to West Africa and beyond,” Hughes said.
Certification Push
At the center of the reform agenda is a drive to secure ICAO certification for Roberts International Airport by the fourth quarter of 2026. Certification would confirm that the airport meets ICAO Annex 14 standards governing airport infrastructure, operational procedures and safety management systems.
The Liberia Airport Authority has engaged HAAB Aviation Consultancy to conduct technical assessments and guide Roberts International Airport through the certification process. Hughes said achieving international certification would strengthen Liberia’s aviation credibility, improve compliance with global safety benchmarks and help attract additional air carriers seeking reliable regional hubs.
Safety Upgrades
Hughes said the Authority is also implementing a nationwide aviation safety program covering all aerodromes under its supervision. The initiative focuses on both occupational safety — protecting passengers, airport personnel and surrounding communities — and operational safety aimed at reducing risks linked to infrastructure deficiencies, unsafe procedures and human error.
Among the measures being implemented is a Wildlife Protection and Mitigation Strategy designed to reduce bird-strike risks on runways. The Authority is also upgrading airport fire and rescue services, with Roberts International Airport projected to achieve Category 10 emergency response capacity, the highest level under international aviation standards.
Emergency response resources will also be expanded significantly. Hughes said the airport plans to increase its fleet from three fire trucks and one ambulance to at least five fire trucks and three ambulances, strengthening the airport’s ability to respond rapidly to potential emergencies.
Reliable electricity supply is another priority. The Authority plans to diversify power sources through a mix of solar energy, diesel generation and integration with Liberia’s national electricity grid. Hughes said uninterrupted power is essential for runway lighting systems, navigation equipment, air traffic support services and terminal operations.
Security Modernization
In addition to safety upgrades, the Liberia Airport Authority is undertaking a major modernization of aviation security systems in line with international security directives issued by ICAO.
The modernization effort includes renovating perimeter fencing and improving access roads around airport facilities to strengthen physical security. Authorities are also installing upgraded surveillance systems and intrusion detection technologies designed to monitor sensitive operational areas more effectively.
Advanced access-control technologies will be deployed in restricted zones, while new passenger and baggage screening equipment will be procured to strengthen the airport’s ability to detect emerging security threats.
“These measures are designed to ensure Liberia maintains standardized aviation security levels capable of responding to evolving global risks,” Hughes said.
Passenger Experience
Beyond safety and security improvements, the Authority is also focusing on improving passenger experience and operational efficiency at Roberts International Airport.
New check-in systems are being installed to streamline passenger processing and reduce delays during peak travel periods. Technical experts are also redesigning arrival halls and baggage-handling systems to improve efficiency and reduce congestion inside the terminal — an issue Hughes acknowledged has been a persistent challenge for the airport.
Institutional Reforms
Hughes said the reform program also includes internal initiatives to strengthen institutional capacity and improve staff welfare at the Liberia Airport Authority.
The Authority plans to introduce staff transport buses, renovate employee housing units and ensure the timely payment of salaries and benefits, including communication and fuel allowances for supervisory staff. The LAA is also expanding community engagement programs intended to support schools, hospitals and employment opportunities in communities surrounding airport concession areas.
Economic Impact
Hughes said the modernization agenda is part of a broader effort to align Liberia’s aviation sector with international standards while strengthening the country’s economic connectivity and competitiveness.
He called for sustained collaboration among government agencies, international partners and aviation stakeholders as the Authority moves forward with reforms aimed at strengthening Liberia’s aviation infrastructure and positioning its airports for long-term growth.
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