New training centre to boost security at West Africa Airports

French airport operator EGIS and training organisation CAMAS have combined to create a training centre for airport specialists in Abidjan, the commercial capital of the Ivory Coast. The partners are confident that it will contribute significantly towards enhanced airport safety and security in West Africa.

Launched in April, the Aviation Professions Centre offers continuing vocational training for existing and potential employees of companies in commercial aviation. It covers the entire airports sector, including cargo-handling, safety and security, planning and operations, certification and audit, reception, stop-over, logistics and management.
CAMAS director Christel Barel said: “There is a real need for specialised training for airport professionals in Africa thanks to the growth of the commercial aviation sector on the continent. Abidjan is ideal for this as it is one of the most dynamic cities in this sub-region and it has effective transportation links.”
CAMAS is experienced in aviation training and the new venture will join its existing centres on the continent, including Casablanca and Johannesburg. The group also operates in Mauritius, Mayotte and Reunion.
EGIS is a natural partner for CAMAS as it already manages five airports in West Africa, while IATA-approved CAMAS brings training know-how of operations and certification.
EGIS’ Olivier Baric, director of aviation Africa said: “When CAMAS offered to join with us to set up a training centre we saw the potential for many synergies that will enable us to respond to the increasing need for training in the field of airport operations.”