Windhoek: A delegation from the Namibian Aviation Training Authority (NATA) on Monday paid a courtesy call on President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah at State House to seek government support. Discussions between the two parties focused mainly on current developments in the aviation industry.

According to Namibia Press Agency, during the meeting, Nandi-Ndaitwah spoke about her early interest in piloting. 'When I was in school, you know they always like to ask you when you grow up, what do you want to do? I was always saying I want to be a pilot,' she said. She also thanked the organisation's delegation for the visit, which was intended to brief her on developments within the aviation sector.

Briefing the media after the visit, NATA Accountable Manager Mathews Endjala !Haradoeb highlighted challenges faced by the industry, including a lack of equipment, particularly helicopter trainers, and the high cost of acquiring such equipment. 'We lack equipment, most especially helicopter trainers, equipment, helicopters,' he said.

!Haradoeb said the NATA team advocated for the revitalisation of their fleet, which consists of old aircraft. 'We requested to empower locals, more specifically formerly disadvantaged pilots or nationals, to be given the opportunity to train as pilots, and for funding to be made available for pilots, aircraft maintenance engineers, technicians and mechanics, because Namibia currently faces a dire situation of lack of instructors, flight instructors,' he added.