Zambia shuts down four radio stations for disrupting aircraft communications
Four radio stations in Zambia's Copperbelt Province have been shut down for disrupting aircraft communications. The closures follow a joint investigation by the Zambia Information and Communications Technology Authority (ZICTA) and the Zambia Civil Aviation Authority (ZCAA). Officials confirmed the stations violated national spectrum rules, creating risks for aviation safety.
The shutdown came after technical tests revealed out-of-band signals and unwanted emissions from the broadcasters. These illegal transmissions interfered with critical communication channels used by aircraft and air traffic control. Under Section 79 of the ICT Act No. 15 of 2009, such interference is prohibited.
ZICTA has ordered all affected stations to halt broadcasts until their equipment meets regulatory standards. Licensees must operate within assigned frequencies, respect bandwidth limits, and avoid disrupting safety-of-life services. Any further non-compliance will result in enforcement action. No official data exists on the number of previous shutdowns linked to aviation interference over the past five years. However, authorities have stressed that strict adherence to spectrum rules is mandatory for all broadcasters.
The four stations must correct technical faults and pass verification before resuming operations. ZICTA has warned that failure to comply will lead to further penalties. The move aims to ensure uninterrupted communication for aviation safety across the region.
