Staff Writer
Westair Aviation, together with its aviation training subsidiary Signa Aviation, celebrated a historic milestone recently with the graduation of Namibia’s first group of Aviation Maintenance Engineers (AMEs) to complete both their trade test preparation and final assessments entirely within Namibia.
The ceremony recognized 20 apprentices who completed 18 theory modules, and nine graduates who successfully completed the full skills test process and are now officially qualified AMEs.
This marked the first time a Namibian Aviation Training Organisation (ATO) has delivered a complete trade test pathway locally. It is a breakthrough for the country’s aviation training landscape and an important step toward national self-sufficiency in technical aviation competencies.
More than three years ago, Westair Aviation and Signa Aviation began a long-term plan to strengthen Namibia’s aviation skills base. This included establishing new state-of-the-art training facilities, developing comprehensive training manuals and systems, and completing a rigorous regulatory approval process with the Namibia Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA).
The result is a fully operational training environment that can prepare and assess aviation maintenance engineers, and that supports a wider ecosystem of aviation training essential to Namibia’s growth.
The introduction of domestic trade testing brings significant benefits to Namibia’s aviation sector. It reduces reliance on foreign assessment bodies, improves access to technical qualifications, and ensures that apprentices are trained and assessed within Namibia’s own operational and regulatory environment.
Westair and Signa emphasised that strong local training capacity is central to aviation safety, operational reliability and national connectivity, supporting tourism, business travel, charter operations, emergency flights and regional mobility.
Each of the graduates followed unique training journeys, yet all reached this milestone through
dedication, hard work and the opportunity created by this new local programme made possible through close cooperation between Westair Aviation, Signa Aviation, the Namibia Civil Aviation Authority, and the instructors, assessors and partners who contributed to the programme. Their shared commitment continues to drive the advancement of aviation training in Namibia.
Westair Aviation offers scheduled airline operations, both fixed and rotary wing charter services, cargo solutions, aircraft maintenance, and a full suite of aviation training programmes.
Signa Aviation is the aviation training subsidiary of Westair Aviation, delivering a full range of accredited aviation training programmes. These include aviation maintenance engineer training, both private and commercial pilot theory and practical training, cabin crew training, ground operations and handling training, and specialised aviation skills development programmes designed to meet industry needs.
Caption: Westair Aviation and Signa Aviation have recognized 20 apprentices who completed 18 theory modules. Photo: Westair Aviation
