In the first half of 2024 we witnessed remarkable achievements across various sectors in the Asia Pacific region. We started the year with the APAC ‘Implementation Support Dialogue’ where key aviation stakeholders and partners converged under the theme of “Enhancing Regional Capacity in Partnership.” During this dialogue, coordinated efforts centered on capacity and capability enhancement. The goal was to maximize assistance to APAC States/Administrations, enabling them to achieve regional and global safety targets while enhancing safety oversight capabilities. A critical aspect of this endeavor is the commitment to strengthening the effective implementation of international Standards and Recommended Practices (SARPs).
The Regional Office’s prioritization of implementation support activities has led to numerous assistance missions aimed at improving the overall air transport system. These technical missions play a pivotal role in preparing States for the USOAP Continuous Monitoring Approach (CMA). The APAC Combined Action Team (CAT) deployed technical assistance missions to countries such as Vanuatu, Bangladesh, and China. These missions assist Member States in preparing for future USOAP CMA Audit activities across various audit areas, including LEG, ORG, PEL, OPS, AIR, ANS, and AGA.
ICAO’s unwavering commitment to environmental stewardship is evident through our initiatives where we promote sustainable air transportation. In the face of global environmental challenges, collaboration among States and aviation industry partners remains crucial.
One notable event on the horizon is the 2024 ICAO APAC Regional Seminar on Environment, that took place in Bangkok, Thailand this month. During this seminar, subject matter experts and key players in aviation discussed critical topics, including the ICAO Global Framework on Sustainable Aviation Fuels (SAF), Low-Carbon Aviation Fuels (LCAF), and other cleaner energy solutions. Additionally, policy and planning related to Long-Term Aviation Goals (LTAG) monitoring and State Action Plans will be addressed.
ICAO’s comprehensive approach extends beyond environmental matters. Several key initiatives highlight the organization’s commitment to advancing aviation in the Asia-Pacific region.
ICAO ATM Contingency Coordination Meetings, development of the Asia/Pacific Seamless ANS plan, Asia/Pacific Search and Rescue Work Group, Monthly Meeting for Joint Event of SWIM over CRV Demonstration and Surveillance Data Sharing in SWIM Trial, Aeronautical Communication Services Implementation Coordination Group, are testaments to our comprehensive approach to advancing aviation in the Asia Pacific region. The development of the APAC Seamless ANS Reporting Tool—a cloud-based application—stands out. This tool supports the implementation progress reporting for Seamless ANS, aligning with ICAO’s Digital Transformation strategy.
APAC has also made significant strides in enhancing aviation security. Continuous assistance missions and training courses have been instrumental in addressing security concerns within Member States. The upcoming Regional Aviation Security Coordination Forum (RASCF) will further foster collaboration, best practices sharing, and effective security measures.
With the establishment of the PLO (Pacific Small Island Developing States (PSIDS) Liaison Office), we have conducted site visits to Pacific countries such as Tonga, Cook Islands, Samoa, and Vanuatu. These visits strengthen engagement with civil aviation authorities and reaffirm ICAO’s support to the Pacific Small Island Developing States (PSIDS). Furthermore, the CRV Seminar for the Pacific States and the Twelfth Meeting of the Common Aeronautical Virtual Private Network Operations Group (CRV OG/12) took place in Fiji in January. Additionally, a Government Safety Inspector – Airworthiness (GSI-AIR) Training Course took place in Nadi, Fiji, in July 2024.
The remainder of 2024 promises important gatherings, including the Second Asia Pacific Ministerial Conference on Civil Aviation (APACMC/2), the 59th Conference of Directors General of Civil Aviation Asia and Pacific Regions (59th DGCA), and the Asia/Pacific Air Navigation Planning and Implementation Regional Group meetings.
Our APAC Office has been instrumental in advancing aviation safety, security, air navigation, and environmental sustainability in the region. We’re sharing this link with interviews and updates on some activities that have taken place in the Region in the first half of the year. Recognizing the team’s dedication and perseverance, it’s important to acknowledge the collective efforts that have contributed to our success. The hard work, innovative ideas, and collaborative spirit displayed by each team member have not only driven our activities forward but have also reiterated our commitment to support the States in their endeavors to achieve a safe, secure, sustainable, and more resilient future for aviation.
