UAE wins seat at ICAO Council Elections

This represents the UAE’s fourth consecutive term on the ICAO Council following previous election wins in 2007, 2010 and 2013. The win comes as a result of the UAE’s successful election campaign during the ICAO’s 39th session of its triennial assembly that was ran by GCAA in collaboration with Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation. Receiving the highest total votes for part 3 of the election.

Sultan bin Saeed Al Mansouri, Minister of the Economy and chairman of the UAE General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA), said: “This is considered a major achievement for the UAE and its advanced civil aviation sector. It is another milestone that cements the UAE’s position as a leader in the aviation industry.  The election victory further motivates the GCAA to continue to innovate to implement world’s best practices in safety and security whilst introducing more environment initiatives.

“The UAE plays an extremely active role in the civil aviation industry worldwide which has gained it the trust of ICAO members.  The UAE is committed to continuing to work alongside the ICAO and its member states to implement important changes to further strengthen the aviation industry.”

Saif Mohammed Al Suwaidi, director general of the UAE GCAA, said: “The UAE’s election victory confirms our country’s leading and solid global position in the aviation industry; it proves that our continuous efforts to extend bridges of cooperation with the international aviation community are paying off. We are extremely proud of this achievement and it only puts further responsibility on our shoulders to contribute to the enhancement of the aviation industry worldwide.”

The UAE joined the ICAO in 1972 and ran for a seat on the Council in 2007 and then was nominated again consecutive term in 2010 and 2013. The UAE is an active player in the organisation, which is reflected through its chairmanship of a number of specialised committees and membership in a number of committees.