As part of its commitment to engaging youth in various aspects of civil aviation, the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) hosted a youth session titled "Youth Empowerment: Achieving Gender Balance in Aviation Security" as part of the ICAO Security Week 2024 and the High-Level Ministerial Segment, held from 9-12 December 2024 in the Sultanate of Oman. The session saw participation from officials, experts, and young professionals with an interest in the aviation sector.

The event was attended by distinguished guests including His Excellency Salvatore Sciacchitano, President of the ICAO Council, His Excellency Juan Carlos Salazar, Secretary General of ICAO, and H.E. Eng. Naif bin Ali bin Hamad Al Abri, President of the Civil Aviation Authority. Other notable attendees were His Excellency Abdulaziz bin Abdullah Al Duailej, President of the General Authority of Civil Aviation in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Eng. Abdulnabi Manar, Director General of the Arab Civil Aviation Organization, Eng. Ahlam bint Abdullah Al-Jahdami, CEO of Sharqiya Aviation, and Ms. Anita Ajay-Namachi, Representative of Ghana on the ICAO Council.

The session focused on four key themes, including the role of youth in civil aviation security, the importance of achieving gender balance in aviation security, challenges and opportunities facing young people in aviation security, and promoting gender balance in the aviation sector through success stories.

The discussions underscore the significance of engaging and empowering youth within the aviation sector and achieving gender balance to enhance security and innovation. The session also highlighted various success stories demonstrating the potential of young professionals in the industry.

Oman’s hosting of ICAO Security Week 2024 and the High-Level Ministerial Segment underpins its strong commitment to enhancing global civil aviation security and solidifying its role as a strategic partner in the sector’s development. The CAA aims to empower youth and integrate them into various fields of civil aviation, aligning with Oman Vision 2040, which prioritizes youth involvement for sustainable development and future progress. By dedicating youth sessions at all international events hosted by Oman, the CAA reaffirms its dedication to fostering a new generation of aviation professionals who will contribute to the sector's growth and innovation.