Johannesburg: The Air Traffic and Navigation Services (ATNS) has been honored with the Transformation Award at the Civil Aviation Industry Awards (CAIA) 2023. The prestigious event, held on Friday night, recognized ATNS’s significant contributions to the aviation industry.

According to South African Government News Agency, this accolade reflects the entity’s commitment to aligning with the National Development Plan objectives as a key player in the aviation industry. The ATNS, a department within the Department of Transport, has recently implemented a Transformation Policy, focusing on various strategic areas including Employment Equity, Supply Chain Management, Corporate Social Investment, and Enterprise and Supplier Development. This policy is part of ATNS’s efforts to evolve into a more inclusive organization.

Mdawe highlighted that it was the ATNS’s comprehensive approach to transformation across all its business areas that led to the receipt of the CAIA 2023 Transformation Award. Additionally, ATNS has made significant strides in aeronautical innovation and air traffic management over the past three decades, earning it the position of first runner-up for the Aviation Research and Development Award.

This recognition comes on the heels of ATNS’s Aviation Training Academy being named the best training academy by the International Air Transport Association for three consecutive years. Another notable achievement was for ATNS Aviation Psychologist, Mr. Matita Tshabalala, who was nominated for the Aviation Professional Award category and placed as second runner-up.

Matita, a registered Aviation Psychologist with the European Association for Aviation Psychology (EAAP), holds the distinction of being the first and only African in South Africa to be recognized as an Aviation Psychologist.

Mdawe expressed pride in the ATNS team’s efforts in securing these awards and highlighted the entity’s mission to continue leading in air traffic and navigation services management, especially as they celebrate their 30th anniversary this year. She specifically applauded individuals like Mr. Matita and others within the ATNS team for their contributions to the organization’s success.