ICAO Meeting Strengthens Aviation Cooperation in the Middle East

ICAO member states in the Middle East agreed to establish the Middle East Regional Aviation Assistance Framework (MID-RAAF). The new framework aims to improve coordination, resource-sharing and implementation of aviation priorities across the region.

Focus on Operational Resilience
- Delegates emphasized the need to maintain air transport operations during disruptions.
- Priority areas include:
- Effective contingency planning
- Timely information sharing
- Coordinated responses to airspace closures
- The ICAO Middle East Contingency Coordination Team was recognized as a key mechanism for supporting safe operations.

Capacity Building and Support
- States called for greater technical assistance and capacity-building support.
- The first MID Development Partners Dialogue was held to strengthen partnerships and mobilize resources for regional aviation projects.

Regional Aviation Initiatives
- Progress reviewed on the creation of a Middle East and North Africa Regional Safety Oversight Organization.
- Jordan agreed to host the Middle East Regional Flight Procedure Programme, aimed at enhancing air navigation capacity and regional cooperation.

Air Traffic Management
- Strong support was expressed for ICAO's proposed ELEVATE initiative.
- The initiative seeks to improve air traffic management coordination between:
- Middle East
- Asia-Pacific
- Europe
- Expected benefits include reduced delays, optimized flight routes and lower fuel consumption.

Leadership Remarks
- ICAO Secretary General Juan Carlos Salazar highlighted the importance of coordinated, needs-based implementation support and reaffirmed ICAO's commitment to its "No Country Left Behind" initiative.

Bilateral Engagements
During the Doha visit, Salazar held discussions with:
- Oman's Civil Aviation Authority on regional aviation cooperation.
- Saudi Arabia's General Authority of Civil Aviation on sustainable aviation growth.
- Officials from Iran to strengthen dialogue and review regional developments.

Key Takeaway
- The DGCA-MID/8 meeting reinforced regional collaboration on aviation safety, security, connectivity and efficiency, while introducing new frameworks and initiatives aimed at building a more resilient, coordinated and sustainable aviation sector across the Middle East.