The General Civil Aviation Policy: A Step Towards Enhancing Economic and Social Development
The aviation industry is one of the main factors supporting economic and social development in the Sultanate of Oman, as it contributes to promoting travel, tourism, and trade, while also enhancing connectivity with the outside world. Amid rapid global developments in this sector, the Civil Aviation Authority, through the General Civil Aviation Policy, aims to enhance safety and security, adopt best environmental practices, develop sector infrastructure, attract investments, and improve service efficiency.
The vision for the civil aviation sector in the Sultanate of Oman is based on "propelling the aviation sector towards new horizons to stimulate sustainable growth for the Sultanate." The General Civil Aviation Policy aims to establish a comprehensive framework that outlines the Omani government’s direction for this vital sector. It also seeks to create a roadmap for developing a national aviation strategy that aligns with Oman Vision 2040 and related national strategies, enhancing the sector's ability to achieve sustainable development goals and inclusive growth in the future.
The policy includes seven main areas:
- Aviation Safety and Security: Ensuring adherence to the highest international standards and best practices set by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) for aviation safety and security, in line with Oman’s Civil Aviation Law, national regulations, and relevant agreements in which Oman is a participant.
- Air Transport: Expanding Oman’s international connectivity by entering into air service agreements with countries around the world.
- Infrastructure Development in the Aviation Sector: Supporting the economic growth of the civil aviation sector by increasing investment opportunities for private sector participation and promoting fair competition to achieve national objectives.
- Economic Regulation: Aiming to enhance operational efficiency and excellence in service delivery.
- Passenger Rights Protection: Ensuring the protection of the rights of passengers and beneficiaries of air transport services.
- Omani Airspace: Aiming to develop and improve the efficiency of Oman’s airspace by enhancing meteorological and air navigation services to support and enable the growth of the aviation sector.
- Environmental Protection: Reducing the environmental impact of the aviation sector in line with the standards and practices established by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) and as specified in relevant treaties and agreements in which Oman is a member, in accordance with Oman’s Civil Aviation Law and national regulations.
It is worth noting that this policy is an important step towards strengthening the civil aviation sector and ensuring its development, contributing to the sustainable growth of Oman’s economic and social sectors.