The United Arab Emirates, represented by the General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA), held a round of Air Services Consultation’s with the Civil Aviation Authority of the People’s Republic of China (CAAC) on 16th and 17th July in the Chinese capital, Beijing.

The aim was to enhance bilateral air transport relations between the two countries and to increase air connectivity. The UAE delegation was led by Saif Mohammed Al Suwaidi, Director-General of the GCAA.

The negotiations resulted in the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to increase air connectivity between the airports of the UAE and the airports of China.

Additionally, both parties agreed to enhance cooperation and collaboration in the civil aviation sector and to explore new initiatives that would strengthen bilateral relations in the aviation sector.

In this context, Saif Mohammed Al Suwaidi, Director-General of the GCAA, highlighted the authority’s dedication to enhancing air transport services, bolstering its international presence, and improving air connectivity to benefit the UAE’s national carriers. He expressed commendation for the agreements reached during the discussions, foreseeing a substantial positive impact on the economic sectors of mutual interest.

He emphasised the significance of collaboration and the exchange of expertise between the two countries in areas of aviation security, safety, air transport, aviation industry and investments in the aviation sector.

He added that the first Air Connectivity Forum between the two countries, held on 15th July, was instrumental in achieving positive outcomes in the negotiations. He also highlighted the necessity of holding such forums on a consistent basis to support and strengthen economic and trade relations between the two countries.

A few days earlier, the UAE General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) has signed a contract with Global Air Navigation Services (GANS) for the provision of training services for Air Traffic Controllers.

The contract will see GANS provide training services to GCAA ab-initio air traffic controllers at its training centre in Al Ain.

Saif Mohammed Al Suwaidi stated, “This agreement highlights our dedication to upholding the highest standards of safety and efficiency within our airspace. By investing in world-class training, we are ensuring that our controllers are equipped with the skills and knowledge necessary to manage the complexities of modern air traffic management.”

Yahya Al Hammadi, CEO of GANS, said, “We look forward to delivering this training contract in accordance with GCAA requirements and working together to improve the global Aviation industry through our many collaboration initiatives. I believe the partnership with GCAA will create a new and effective model of collaboration in our industry.”

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 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:

WAM