Rwanda has expanded its capacity to train air traffic controllers with the installation of a new simulator at its national aviation training centre, giving trainees practical experience in managing aircraft movements under simulated operating conditions.
Silas Udahemuka, Director General of the Rwanda Civil Aviation Authority (RCAA), presided over the inauguration of the simulator at Kigali International Airport in Kanombe on October 16, 2026.
The equipment has been installed at the Rwanda Civil Aviation Training and Innovation Center (RCATIC) through a partnership with Airways International. It is designed to help trainees develop the skills needed to manage aircraft movements safely before taking up or advancing in professional roles.
The simulator uses Airways International’s TotalControl technology and includes a 360-degree visual environment designed to replicate air traffic control operations. The facility has positions for three air traffic controllers, three additional simulator stations for training in different control functions, and facilities for eight pilots to practise simulated flight operations.
The system allows trainees to practise responding to different situations in a controlled environment, helping them develop the judgement and coordination required to manage aircraft movements safely and efficiently.
RCATIC Director Albert Aidoo Taylor said the technology would enable the centre to provide practical training based on scenarios that air traffic controllers could encounter in their daily work.
“The simulator enables RCATIC to provide air traffic controllers with practical training based on different situations that may arise. It can simulate the operations of any airport here in Kigali,” Taylor said. “This will help us prepare air traffic controllers who are competent and confident in their work, both in Rwanda and across Africa.”
The investment comes as Rwanda continues to develop its aviation sector and strengthen its capacity to train professionals for an industry that depends on specialised skills and strict safety procedures.
The simulator will support several training programmes, including those for controllers managing aircraft movements around airports and those monitoring aircraft operating in different sections of airspace.
It will also be used to train instructors, supervisors and assessors, while helping practising controllers update their skills and prepare for changing operational demands.
James Evans, Chief Commercial Officer at Airways International, said RCATIC’s investment demonstrated its commitment to improving aviation training.
He said the company was pleased to support the centre with technology intended to improve training quality and contribute to the development of aviation services in Africa.
The facility will allow RCATIC to train air traffic controllers and other aviation professionals through simulated operational scenarios, while preparing instructors and assessors to support training needs in Rwanda and across the region.
