On 7 April 2026, AOPA Namibia published its most recent Aviation Industry White Paper titled Namibia Aviation Industry Critical Commercial Pilot and Flight Instructor Shortage, submitted to the Namibian public, media, and the following Government of the Republic of Namibia Ministries, authorities and organisations:
- The Ministry of Home Affairs, Immigration, Safety and Security (MHAISS);
- The Ministry of Works and Transport (MWT);
- The Ministry of Justice and Labour Relations (MJLR);
- The Namibia Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA); and
- The Namibia Investment Promotion and Development Board (NIPDB)
This White Paper presents the findings of a comprehensive industry survey conducted by AOPA Namibia in early 2026, supported by an analysis of the NCAA's Pilot Register and formal consultations with both the NCAA Executive Director and affected aviation companies across Namibia.
The findings reveal a staffing crisis of significant national consequence:
- Only 202 active Namibian Commercial Pilot Licence (CPL) holders are on the national Pilot Register (as of Q4 2025);
- Approximately 10 new CPLs are issued per year, far below industry demand;
- 74 or more additional commercial pilots and flight instructors are needed immediately; and
- Of 58 work permit applications submitted for qualified foreign aviation personnel, 20 have been rejected and 12 remain pending.
Based on AOPA's findings, the White Paper recommends multiple short, medium and long-term proposals to address the critical commercial pilot shortage the country is currently facing.
Should government representatives or leaders, the media, or members of the public have any questions about the White Paper, please contact AOPA via email at ceo@aopa.org.na