ICAO Explained: Supporting States, strengthening aviation, leaving no country behind

Behind every safe takeoff, every connected community, and every growing aviation economy, there’s a network of support working quietly in the background. In this No Country Left Behind episode of our ICAO Explained video series, we are taking a closer look at how ICAO helps countries transform ambitious global aviation goals into real-world progress.

The ICAO TV series helps unpack the complex world of international civil aviation by highlighting the essential work ICAO carries out with its 193 Member States. Through short, engaging videos and companion articles, the series breaks down how ICAO sets global aviation standards, supports countries in applying them, and works to ensure that international aviation remains safe, secure, sustainable, and accessible to all. In this episode, we address capacity-building, the implementation of Standards and Recommended Practices (SARPs), and the hands-on work ICAO carries out to help our 193 Member States strengthen their aviation systems—from infrastructure and training to regulations and long-term sustainability planning.

At the heart of this mission is No Country Left Behind, ICAO’s commitment to ensuring that all countries, regardless of size or development level, can fully participate in and benefit from global aviation. This means providing tailored assistance, facilitating access to funding, and helping States tackle pressing challenges in safety, security, and sustainability.

From multi-million-dollar field projects and global rosters of aviation experts, to training fellowships and technical assistance programmes, ICAO is actively helping States build the capacity they need. Through global initiatives like the ACT-SAF programme, Trainair PLUS, and implementation packages, ICAO equips national aviation workforces with the tools and knowledge to apply international standards effectively and confidently.

Whether it’s helping a country launch its first civil aviation training centre, responding to urgent technical needs, or guiding States in the transition to cleaner energy and net-zero emissions, ICAO’s role is about more than policy—it takes partnerships and commited support.

These are short videos with big explanations that show how ICAO helps ensure that air transport remains a powerful force for sustainable development, leaving no country behind. Click the below link to access the videos in the current series.