Safety First Taking Flight -Koon Launches Urgent Review of RIA, Pledges Safety Overhaul

MONROVIA – Despite being one of the oldest and most strategic airports in the sub-region, Roberts International Airport (RIA) has long been plagued by a litany of challenges, including chronic electricity outages, a dilapidated terminal environment, subpar services, and glaring infrastructure deficits. The airport’s woes have persisted across multiple administrations, with promises of improvement often giving way to more of the same. However, recent developments offer a glimmer of hope. Following an urgent inspection and calls for reform, Speaker of the House of Representatives Richard N. Koon is reportedly contemplating a comprehensive overhaul of the airport’s operations and infrastructure. Could this signal a turning point for Liberia’s aviation sector? The Analyst reports.

In response to escalating safety concerns at Liberia’s main air gateway, Speaker of the House of Representatives Richard N. Koon conducted an urgent inspection of Roberts International Airport (RIA) on Wednesday, October 9, 2025.

The visit followed a formal invitation from Mr. Julius D. Dennis, Jr., Director General of the Liberia Civil Aviation Authority, who had previously briefed Speaker Koon on the grave safety risks threatening the airport’s operations.

Mr. Dennis’ detailed presentation on malfunctioning navigation systems and operational failures prompted Speaker Koon’s decisive action, highlighting the need for government resolve to address Liberia’s ailing aviation safety infrastructure.

Speaker Koon emphasized that safeguarding Liberia’s skies is a paramount national duty.

The essence of this visit is to see firsthand the issues Mr. Dennis brought to our attention,: he stated. “There are safety gadgets, especially navigation systems, that are not working properly.”

According to him, Liberia failed an international aviation audit in 2022, and we cannot continue down this path.

“We must fly safe,” the House Speaker declares.

Providing a frank assessment, Mr. Dennis revealed Liberia’s poor 2022 International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) Universal Safety Oversight Audit outcome.

‘Liberia failed miserably in that audit,” he acknowledged. “Two major safety deficiencies stand out: our Navigation Aids (NavAids) and flight procedural designs. Our immediate priority is to resolve these issues to elevate our aviation sector to meet global standards.”

Highlighting the financial challenge, the Director General expressed hope that Speaker Koon’s visit marks a renewed commitment to aviation reform.

“Addressing these challenges hinges on funding,” Dennis further said, adding: “We must replace outdated equipment, improve fire and rescue services, and modernize weather systems to ensure safety.”

Liberia Airport Authority Board Chairman Massaquoi M. Kamara, Sr. supported the concerns, emphasizing the airport’s vulnerability due to critical resource shortages.  He said: “Our airport’s safety is compromised by severe resource gaps.”

Kamara noted further: “We currently have only two functional fire trucks but need at least four, with each truck costing around $1 million. The Doppler Very High Frequency Omni Directional Range (DVOR) navigation system requires about $5.4 million.”

He hinted that the equipment is essential for aircraft to determine their position and course by transmitting radio signals from ground stations.

“These systems, not just the passenger terminal, are what keep the airport operational and safe,” he said.

Assuring stakeholders of legislative action, Speaker Koon pledged to prioritize safety in the 2026 national budget.

“Operating below international standards is unacceptable,” he stressed. “Our navigation and safety systems must work perfectly to guarantee safe flights in Liberia. Air safety is not a privilege; it’s a necessity.”

This inspection is part of Speaker Koon’s broader initiative to review key national institutions, ensuring vital facilities align with international benchmarks and effectively serve the Liberian people.