Suriname has initiated a comprehensive multi-year aviation safety overhaul program to remove the country from the European Union’s Air Safety List. The Civil Aviation Authority Suriname (CASAS) has formally contracted German-based international aviation security firm Aerothrive to lead the ambitious ‘SuriSafe-28’ initiative, designed to address critical deficiencies identified in recent audits conducted by both the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) and the European Union.
The partnership was officially sealed during a signing ceremony in Paramaribo, where CASAS Director Brian de Souza and Aerothrive CEO Patrick Lutz finalized the collaborative agreement. Aerothrive, a globally recognized aviation safety organization with a network of over 110 senior aviation experts worldwide, will coordinate the extensive program aimed at achieving full compliance with international aviation standards.
CEO Lutz emphasized that the project extends beyond technical assistance, stating: ‘Our focus encompasses strengthening CASAS’s institutional capabilities, streamlining all improvement trajectories, and facilitating collaboration with key international partners including ICAO and the EU. Only through a coordinated, multifaceted approach can we achieve our shared objective.’
Director de Souza characterized the initiative as a national priority, confirming: ‘This project enjoys the full support of our government. Removing the EU flight ban is absolutely crucial for our aviation safety standards, traveling public, and economic development. With Aerothrive’s expertise, we’re taking a substantial step toward sustainable improvement.’
The aviation audits revealed decades of systemic underfunding and structural deficiencies within Suriname’s oversight system. According to CASAS officials, current conditions for recovery appear favorable, with increased political commitment, enhanced funding, and strategic international partnerships creating a solid foundation for meaningful progress.