In a move raising serious concerns about aviation safety across Africa, the South African Civil Aviation Authority (SACAA) has ordered dozens of airline personnel to undergo fresh medical examinations. The directive comes after an investigation uncovered that 103 individuals had received potentially fraudulent medical certificates from South African Airways’ (SAA) chief medical officer, Nonhlanhla Sishaba.
Among those affected are pilots, cabin crew, and air traffic controllers, all of whom had been certified as fit to work under circumstances that are now under scrutiny. The SACAA identified discrepancies in certificates issued by Sishaba, who allegedly failed to submit essential medical test results to the aviation authority as required.
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According to SACAA spokesperson Phindiwe Gwebu, Sishaba continued to issue medical certificates even after her authorization was revoked. When the overdue test results were finally submitted, the SACAA found numerous anomalies, prompting the launch of a broader investigation into the certifications.
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This scandal has sent shockwaves through the industry, with the SACAA aiming to ensure that all aviation staff operating in the country are medically fit to perform their critical roles. The case underscores the high stakes of ensuring proper oversight and regulatory compliance in aviation, a sector where safety must be paramount.
