The Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) proudly joins the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) in celebrating three notable international events. These celebrations coincide with the Sultanate of Oman's hosting of ICAO Security Week 2024 and the High-Level Ministerial Meeting.

The CAA organized a ceremonial event today to mark International Civil Aviation Day, in alignment with the Sultanate of Oman's hosting of ICAO Security Week 2024 and the High-Level Ministerial Segment. This occasion also commemorates the 80th anniversary of the ICAO and the 50th anniversary of the adoption of Annex 17. The ceremony was presided over by His Excellency Eng. Naif bin Ali Al Abri, President of the CAA, attended by the President of the ICAO Council, government officials, ministers, presidents of civil aviation authorities, representatives from international and regional organizations, airlines, airports, and security companies.

The event featured visual presentations highlighting the history and achievements of the ICAO, which was established in 1944 to manage and regulate the Convention on International Civil Aviation (Chicago Convention). With 193 member states, the ICAO focuses on improving global civil aviation safety through regulatory oversight. The organization's strategic objectives include increasing the capacity and efficiency of the global civil aviation network by modernizing air navigation and airport infrastructure, as well as developing new procedures to optimize aviation network performance. The Global Air Navigation Capability and Efficiency Plan outlines the primary activities for a three-year period.

Other ICAO objectives encompass security and facilitation, economic development of air transport, and environmental protection. These goals aim to enhance global civil aviation security, promote a safe and economical aviation network, and mitigate the environmental impact of civil aviation activities.

International Civil Aviation Day, observed annually on December 7, is themed "Innovation and Sustainability in Aviation" this year. The day promotes awareness of civil aviation's significance in social and economic development and its role in fostering international understanding and peace. The date commemorates the signing of the Chicago Convention in 1944, which established the legal framework for international civil aviation cooperation. The United Nations General Assembly officially recognized this day in 1996, following the initiative of the ICAO.

This year also marks the 50th anniversary of the adoption of Annex 17 to the Chicago Convention, which focuses on enhancing global civil aviation security. Adopted in 1974 in response to increasing aviation threats, Annex 17 sets international standards for security measures at all stages of air operations. The annex has made significant achievements in aviation security and emphasized the importance of international cooperation among member states, airlines, and airports. Discussions at the event included future challenges such as cybersecurity and drones, and the need for a unified commitment to implementing common security standards to ensure the safety of millions of passengers and cargo daily.

On these occasions, His Excellency Eng. Nayef bin Ali Al Abri, President of the CAA, remarked that the Sultanate of Oman is dedicated to collaborating effectively with member states to advance international civil aviation. He highlighted the civil aviation sector's critical role in comprehensive global development. Oman recently celebrated 50 years of accession to the ICAO, having joined in 1971.

The CAA is committed to fostering close cooperation with ICAO member states to achieve common goals, particularly in air safety, environmental protection, and aviation industry innovation. The Sultanate of Oman actively participates in ICAO activities, bolstering its position as a leading regional aviation hub in the Middle East.