The Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) says it expects Kamuzu International Airport to get certified for international flights by the end of 2026.

At the moment, according to CAA Acting Director General Samuel Kalua, the airport does not meet the requirements set by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) and the Civil Aviation (Aerodromes) Regulations of 2017.

Among other shortcomings, he says, the airport lacks adequate safety and security systems, trained human resources, and infrastructure.

Kalua said the authority is working to improve the systems to meet expected standards. He observed that once certified, KIA, which already recieves international planes, will build confidence among international operators.

According to Kalua, the initial plan was to certify the country’s two international airports, Kamuzu International Airport and Bakili Muluzi International Airport, but the focus has first been placed on KIA.

"Our main focus is on Kamuzu International Airport, and we are carrying out all the necessary processes to have it certified by the end of 2026," Kaula said.

Social commentator, Lucky Mbewe, is optimistic that once certified, KIA will further boost trade activities and increase forex inflows into Malawi.