SIMS forecasters complete aviation weather training, boosting forecast accuracy and aviation safety nationwide
Staff from the Solomon Islands Meteorological Service (SIMS) have completed an Aviation Meteorological Forecasting training and competency assessment program, delivered by the Australian Bureau of Meteorology.
Since February, SIMS forecasters have been strengthening their capacity to provide accurate and timely forecasts to support aviation operations.
Australian High Commissioner to Solomon Islands, Jeff Roach, said weather forecasts are more important than ever to keep people safe, especially in a changing climate.
“Completion of this training program is a milestone achievement in a decades-long history of cooperation between SIMS and the Australian Bureau of Meteorology. The formation of cyclone Maila in April this year in Western Province underscores the new and elevated risks of changing climate” said High Commissioner Roach.
SIMS Deputy Director Dr Eddie Maru said “This training marks an important milestone in strengthening aviation weather forecasting services in the Solomon Islands, enhancing the capacity of forecasters to provide accurate and timely meteorological information that supports aviation safety and operations across the country.”
Consultant meteorologist Dr Adam Morgan delivered the training on behalf of Australia’s Bureau of Meteorology.
“I commend the hard work of the SIMS forecasters for completing this intensive program,” said Dr Morgan.
“The aviation sector, businesses and communities rely on your forecasts for their safety, and the SIMS forecasters are rising to the challenge”.
The Aviation Meteorological Forecasting training and competency assessment program supports broader efforts under the Solomon Islands-Australia Partnership to lift aviation safety and reliability. Australia has co-financed with New Zealand and Solomon Islands runway upgrades in Seghe and Taro, which are now completed, and ongoing terminal upgrades at both locations.
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