Company says it is still undergoing maintenance preparations and additional technical work required before it can be deployed for commercial operations

By Riak Chol

South Sudan Supreme Airlines has issued an official response to a recent statement by the South Sudan Civil Aviation Authority (SSCAA), clarifying that it has not resumed flight operations and remains committed to meeting all regulatory and safety requirements before returning to the skies.

In a statement signed by the Chairman of the Board of Directors, Ayii Duang Ayii, on Tuesday, the airline said it had taken note of the aviation regulator’s June 1 press statement regarding the status of the company’s operations and sought to provide clarification on several issues raised by the authority.

The airline emphasized that it fully respects the mandate of the SSCAA and remains committed to maintaining the highest standards of aviation safety, security, and regulatory compliance.

“There has been no resumption of flight operations,” the company stated, stressing that earlier communication from the airline was intended only to inform the public about the successful completion of a technical assessment of its CRJ-100 aircraft.

According to the statement, the aircraft is still undergoing maintenance preparations and additional technical work required before it can be deployed for commercial operations.

The airline rejected any suggestion that it had attempted to mislead the public or regulators, saying the previous announcement was issued in good faith and was solely intended to update stakeholders on the technical status of the aircraft.

“At no time did South Sudan Supreme Airlines intend to mislead the public, stakeholders, passengers, regulatory authorities, or any government institution,” the statement noted.

South Sudan Supreme Airlines acknowledged concerns raised by the aviation authority and reaffirmed its willingness to cooperate closely with regulators to address all outstanding safety, airworthiness, operational, and certification requirements.

The company said it would continue working in accordance with the laws and regulations of South Sudan, as well as those of the aircraft’s State of Registry, the Republic of The Gambia.

The airline also addressed questions surrounding a previous suspension referenced by the SSCAA. According to the company, the suspension was lifted following a decision by the Council of Ministers and the Ministry of Transport.

It further claimed that the aviation authority had been directed to conduct a broader review of the airworthiness status of aircraft operating through Juba International Airport, a process that extended beyond aircraft owned by South Sudan Supreme Airlines.

The airline also commented on previously reported shooting incidents involving one of its aircraft, revealing that a formal case had been filed with the Northern Division Police.

According to the statement, the affected aircraft continues to display visible bullet-hole damage, which the company says is supported by photographs and records submitted to the relevant authorities.

Flights Remain Suspended

South Sudan Supreme Airlines assured customers, partners, employees, and the general public that every effort is being made to satisfy all regulatory, technical, safety, and operational requirements before any flights resume.

The company pledged full cooperation with competent authorities and said it would continue providing information through official channels for review and verification.

“Every effort is being undertaken to ensure that all regulatory, safety, technical, and operational requirements are fully satisfied before any resumption of flight operations,” the statement said.

The airline concluded by calling for constructive engagement and cooperation among stakeholders, saying such collaboration is essential for strengthening South Sudan’s aviation sector and ensuring safe, secure, reliable, and efficient air transport services across the country.

The statement also thanked customers and stakeholders for their patience and support, while reaffirming the airline’s commitment to transparency, accountability, and full regulatory compliance throughout the process.