JUBA — South Sudan Supreme Airlines on Tuesday issued a clarification on its operational status, dismissing reports suggesting that the airline announced the resumption of flight operations.
Speaking during a press conference in Juba on Tuesday, the proprietor of South Supreme Airlines, Ayii Duang Ayii, said that the airline’s recent communication was about the successful completion of a technical assessment of its CRJ-100 aircraft, adding that it should not be interpreted as a declaration that commercial operations have resumed.
“The company wishes to clarify that there has been no resumption of flight operations. The communication previously issued by the company referred solely to the successful completion of a technical assessment of the CRJ-100 aircraft,” Duang said.
Duang said the aircraft remains under maintenance and is undergoing further technical procedures before it can be cleared for operational deployment.
“The statement was issued in good faith and was intended to provide an update on the aircraft’s technical work. At no time did South Sudan Supreme Airlines intend to mislead the public, stakeholders, passengers, regulatory authorities, or any government institution.”
The clarification follows reports that misquoted the airline, prompting the South Sudan Civil Aviation Authority (SSCAA) to issue a statement on Monday refuting claims that South Supreme Airline had been cleared to resume operations.
The authority emphasized that the airline remains grounded and must complete all mandatory safety inspections and verify its aircraft documentation before it can be authorized to return to service.
A business tycoon further noted that the suspension imposed on the company had previously been lifted through a decision by the Council of Ministers and the Ministry of Transport.
“The SSCAA was directed to initiate a broader review of the airworthiness status of aircraft operating through Juba International Airport, a process that extended beyond aircraft belonging solely to South Sudan Supreme Airlines,” he said.
He also revealed that the CRJ-100 aircraft had sustained bullet damage while stationed at Juba International Airport.
According to him, a formal case was lodged with the Northern Police Division, and the matter remains under investigation.
“With respect to the report of shooting incidents involving company aircraft, a formal case was lodged with the Northern Police Division. The affected aircraft continue to display visible bullet-hole damage, as evidenced by photographs and records available to the relevant authorities,” he said.
The airline proprietor reassured customers, partners, employees, and the general public that the company remains committed to meeting all requirements set by aviation authorities to ensure the safe resumption of operations.
