New partnership to establish UAE’s first green aviation technology hub

The General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) and Volar Air Mobility signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) during the International Civil Aviation Organisation’s (ICAO) Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) Symposium 2024.

This collaboration will lead to the development of the UAE’s first Green Aviation Technology Hub, marking a significant milestone in the nation’s efforts towards environmental sustainability and innovation in aviation.

The Green Aviation Technology Hub aims to promote clean energy solutions, support research and development in sustainable aviation technologies, and foster collaboration among international stakeholders, regulators, and innovators.

This initiative aligns with the UAE’s broader vision to become a global leader in green technology and reduce carbon emissions in the aviation sector.

Saif Mohammed Al Suwaidi, Director-General of the GCAA, stated, “This MoU reflects our commitment to advancing sustainable aviation and supporting the UAE’s national strategy to reduce carbon emissions. The Green Aviation Hub will play a pivotal role in developing cutting-edge solutions for a greener future.” Henry Hooi, Chairman of Volar Air Mobility, added, “We are excited to partner with the GCAA in establishing this innovative hub. Our mission is to accelerate the adoption of green aviation technologies, and this collaboration will create a centre of excellence for sustainable air mobility in the UAE.” The partnership highlights the shared vision between the GCAA and Volar Air Mobility to revolutionise air travel through green technology, benefiting both the UAE and the global aviation community.

In May, the UAE General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) has announced a new strategic partnership with the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) aimed at enhancing cooperation in developing and empowering the Next Generation of Aviation Professionals (NGAP).

Saif Mohammed Al Suwaidi, Director-General of the GCAA, and Juan Carlos Salazar, Secretary-General of the ICAO, signed a memorandum of understanding on this matter yesterday at the GCAA’s office in Dubai.

The strategic partnership focuses on coordinating cooperation frameworks to develop the human capital of professionals, and skilled workforce in various aviation specialties worldwide, through attract, train, educate, and retain the next generation of aviation professionals, and supporting initiatives related to gender equality and fostering an environment conducive to development and innovation.

Saif Al Suwaidi emphasised the significance of this partnership in aligning with the developmental objectives and aspirations of both entities. This collaboration signifies an important milestone in the joint efforts between the UAE and the ICAO, aimed at integrating efforts to foster a comprehensive and advanced aviation sector.

“Investing in the next generation of aviation professionals and supporting women’s empowerment will pave the way for a more dynamic and sustainable future for our industry,” he added.

ICAO Secretary-General Juan Carlos Salazar echoed this sentiment, adding, “This strategic partnership between ICAO and the GCAA represents a bold step forward in our shared commitment to developing a skilled, diverse, and sustainable aviation workforce. By working together to attract, train, and empower the next generation of aviation professionals, we are laying the foundation for a brighter future in the aviation industry. ICAO is proud to collaborate with the GCAA in this important endeavour, and we look forward to seeing the positive impact of our joint efforts on the global aviation community.” The MOU has identified three main aspects of cooperation between the two sides to proactively empower the next generation of aviation professionals through: - The collaboration between the GCAA and the ICAO involves efforts to develop tailored programs, initiatives, and educational opportunities aimed at attracting and training the next generation of aviation professionals.

- Supporting women’s empowerment and enhancing gender equality in aviation through collaborative initiatives aimed at creating more equitable and diverse opportunities at all levels within the aviation sector.

- Fostering a culture of knowledge sharing and collaboration by exchanging best practices, information, and resources related to aviation professional development and gender equality. This aims to cultivate an environment supportive of innovation, progress, and development within the industry. Separately in May, the General Civil Aviation Authority also signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Skyports to enhance national regulations for clean energy-powered vertiports.

The MoU, signed on Thursday at the GCAA headquarters in Dubai, aims to develop standards designed to accommodate hybrid operations at vertiports, paving the way for operational flexibility and utilisation of the existing vertiport infrastructure in the UAE.

WAM