CAA Certifies Flying Food Ltd as Approved Aircraft Catering Operator
The Civil Aviation Authority has officially handed over an Aircraft Catering Operator Certificate to Flying Food Limited, marking a major milestone in strengthening Zambia’s aviation safety and service value chain.
Speaking at the handover ceremony, CAA Board Chairperson Gabriel Chileshe Kunda said the certification reflects the Authority’s mandate to uphold aviation security and operational standards in line with International Civil Aviation Organization requirements.
“As a regulator, the Civil Aviation Authority ensures that all aviation service providers comply with national regulations aligned with ICAO standards. Compliance is mandatory and safeguards passenger health, security and operational integrity,” Captain Kunda said.
He noted that aviation catering is a critical part of the aviation security value chain and requires strict oversight from food preparation to aircraft loading. He added that Flying Food Ltd successfully completed the CAA’s rigorous five-phase certification process, which included submission of a comprehensive security programme, facility inspections and detailed audits.
“Today’s certification confirms that Flying Food Ltd has demonstrated the required technical capacity, infrastructure, trained personnel and security protocols to operate as an approved aviation catering provider,” he said.
CAA Director General Derrick Luembe also congratulated the company on the achievement, describing it as evidence of professionalism and commitment to regulatory compliance.
“This achievement demonstrates Flying Food’s dedication to meeting the standards required to operate within Zambia’s aviation sector,” he said.
Speaking on behalf of the company, Flying Food Ltd Chief Visionary Officer Misheck Tembo described the certification as a collective achievement and a reflection of the company’s commitment to excellence.
“Today we celebrate not just a certificate, but a shared achievement that reflects the highest standards of aviation catering and safety. We remain committed to continuous improvement, staff training, strong partnerships across the aviation ecosystem and the delivery of safe, high-quality meals to the travelling public,” Mr Tembo said.
He paid tribute to the CAA Aviation Security Unit for its guidance throughout the certification process, as well as to the company’s aviation security team and its 126-member workforce.
The CAA said the certification strengthens Zambia’s aviation value chain and supports the Government’s vision of positioning the country as a regional aviation and logistics hub.
The Aircraft Catering Operator Certificate formally authorises Flying Food Ltd to operate as an approved aviation catering provider under the regulatory oversight of the Civil Aviation Authority.
