The General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) is taking a significant step by joining the Civil Air Navigation Services Organisation (CANSO), heralding transformative changes to air traffic management (ATM) in the Middle East.

CANSO is the Global Voice of Air Traffic Management, counting as its members Air Navigation Service Providers (ANSPs) that support over 90 per cent of world air traffic, as well as the technology organisations and service providers that play a pivotal role in developing the next generation of ATM systems. CANSO fosters innovation and collaboration amongst its members to enhance ATM quality and drive excellence in air traffic management.

The GCAA's membership in CANSO will bolster cooperation and expertise sharing across the region and globally.

Additionally, the GCAA will assume a crucial role in the Complete Air Traffic System (CATS) Global Council, a pioneering collaboration comprising over 80 aviation and aerospace organisations, entrusted with realising the vision for the skies in 2045 and beyond it has created.

His Excellency Saif Mohammed Al Suwaidi, Director General of the GCAA, commented, 'We anticipate that this partnership will enhance air traffic management services, aligning with our commitment to providing high-quality aviation services. This collaboration is a pivotal element of our continuous efforts to elevate air navigation service standards on both regional and global scales. Additionally, it will enable us to stay updated on the latest global innovations in air traffic control and best practices, thereby ensuring more efficient and effective services.”

As Simon Hocquard, CANSO’s Director General commented: "Recognising the GCAA's extensive experience and expertise as a top-tier service provider, we are thrilled to welcome the GCAA into the CANSO family. Their membership underscores the UAE's dedication to fostering innovation and setting new standards in air traffic management within the Middle East."

Photo Credit: General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA)