Schmidt visited BHANSA: Vital state institutions must never be held hostage by domestic political disputes

(Patria) - High Representative Christian Schmidt visited the Area Control Center of the Air Navigation Services Agency of BiH (BHANSA) in Sarajevo today, where he was welcomed by Director Davorin Primorac, management, and employees.

The visit comes after BHANSA, thanks to the High Representative's decision from July 2025, overcame one of the biggest financial crises in its history - the blockade of revenues from EUROCONTROL.

Primorac emphasized that, in addition to being saved from financial collapse, a legal framework has been created that prevents similar situations from threatening the work of institutions of strategic importance in the future.

During the visit, Schmidt stressed that the stability of the air navigation system must be continuously strengthened to guarantee uninterrupted service.

Air traffic control of Bosnia and Herzegovina must be fully operational to fulfill international obligations and effectively represent regional interests in the development of the European air network.

The High Representative also stated that vital state institutions, such as BHANSA, must never be endangered or become hostages of domestic political disputes.

However, the crisis also opened up the question of the need for full harmonization of the legal framework for civil aviation in BiH with European standards.

Primorac informed Schmidt that the Ministry of Communications and Transport of BiH is already preparing a set of legislative solutions, the adoption of which is expected by the end of the year, and which should ensure the long-term development of the sector in the next 15 to 20 years.

Civil aviation has already proven to be a key driver of economic growth and international competitiveness, and it is expected to maintain this role in the coming decades.

During the tour of the operations room, the High Representative was acquainted with air traffic control processes and spoke with air traffic controllers, who ensure the flow of air traffic over BiH on a daily basis.

Speaking about the future, Primorac announced that BHANSA, freed from financial pressure, is entering a new phase of strategic development.

The focus is on modernizing infrastructure and strengthening human resources - from the installation of modern radar and communication systems, including the recently installed Mode S radar on Jahorina, to intensive training of new generations of controllers and technical staff in Mostar.

New employment is also planned in parallel to respond to the growing needs of the system.

BHANSA will become more involved in regional and European initiatives, especially in the Single European Sky program, which opens up opportunities for greater integration, efficiency, and safety in airspace management for BiH.

The visit concluded with a tour of the Approach and Aerodrome Control Unit at Sarajevo International Airport, with the message that the Agency, with the support of international partners, will continue to strengthen the safety, efficiency, and quality of services for all users of BiH airspace.