The Tanzania Civil Aviation Authority (TCAA) is projecting annual revenue of over 10bn/- from international student enrolment at the new state-of-the-art Civil Aviation Training Centre (CATC), which is scheduled for completion in July 2028.

The new facility is set to significantly enhance the college’s training capacity, enabling it to accommodate more students from across Africa and other regions. This expansion is expected to further position Tanzania as a competitive hub for aviation training.

TCAA Director General, Mr Salim Msangi, made the remarks during a visit by the Parliamentary Standing Committee on Infrastructure, which inspected the ongoing construction of the college on March 16,2026.

He said the anticipated revenue growth is largely attributed to the increasing number of international applicants seeking admission to the institution.

“A large share of applicants comes from outside the country, but the current college has limited capacity. Once the new facility is completed, international student enrolment will increase substantially, resulting in higher foreign exchange earnings,” said Mr Msangi.

The project, valued at approximately 78bn/-, is expected to transform aviation training in the country by expanding the institution’s intake capacity.

At present, CATC generates about 2bn/- annually while accommodating around 2,000 students. Upon completion of the new facility, the centre’s capacity is projected to increase to between 7,000 and 10,000 students.

During the visit, the Parliamentary Standing Committee on Infrastructure expressed satisfaction with the progress of the project, while directing the government, through TCAA, to ensure that construction proceeds smoothly and is completed within the planned three-year timeframe.

Committee Chairman, Mr Selemani Kakoso, said the purpose of the visit was to evaluate the government’s implementation of the project as part of broader efforts to enhance investment in the aviation sector.

“While progress is encouraging, there are areas that require close attention to ensure timely completion of the project,” he said, highlighting the importance of safeguarding workers’ welfare.

The committee further directed that close monitoring of the contractor be maintained to ensure improvements in workers’ remuneration and overall working conditions.

Aviation training remains a critical component in strengthening the aviation industry by producing skilled professionals, including air traffic controllers and other technical personnel essential for safe and efficient operations.

A well trained workforce supports compliance with international aviation standards, enhances operational efficiency, and strengthens the credibility of the national aviation sector.

Furthermore, advanced aviation training contributes to industry growth by promoting innovation, improving efficiency, and expanding the capacity to manage increasing air traffic.

It also plays a key role in attracting regional and international students, generating revenue, and positioning the country as a centre of excellence in aviation training, while supporting broader economic growth in the aviation and tourism sectors.