UAE Aviation Safety Conference 2024 Concludes in Dubai

Dubai, The Gulf Observer: The “UAE Aviation Safety Conference 2024” successfully concluded today in Dubai, marking a significant milestone in the country’s commitment to advancing aviation safety. Organized by the General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) under the theme “Safety: The Constant in a Changing Industry,” the two-day event brought together 24 expert speakers from various aviation safety sectors, including government agencies, airlines, and research institutions.

The conference, part of the UAE State Safety Program’s (SSP) Safety Promotion initiative, addressed critical topics such as Wake Turbulence, Safety Management Systems (SMS), Fatigue Management, and Advanced Air Mobility (AAM). These discussions underscored the UAE’s forward-thinking approach to maintaining and enhancing aviation safety standards amidst rapid technological and industry changes.

A highlight of the event was the session on Safety Management Systems (SMS), which explored the latest advancements in proactive safety oversight. Speakers discussed how safety management frameworks are evolving to incorporate data-driven decision-making, enhanced risk management, and improved safety reporting systems. The session featured insights from regulatory bodies and industry leaders, showcasing best practices that ensure the UAE remains a global leader in aviation safety.

The Fatigue Management panel tackled the pressing issue of fatigue across multiple aviation sectors, including flight operations, air traffic control, and maintenance. Experts presented innovative, data-driven approaches to managing fatigue risks, offering practical strategies and real-world case studies to mitigate these risks. Scientific research on the impact of fatigue on safety performance was also shared, reinforcing the need for comprehensive fatigue risk management beyond mere duty time limitations.

In a forward-looking session on Advanced Air Mobility (AAM), industry pioneers discussed the future of urban air transport and the integration of electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft into existing airspace systems. This panel addressed regulatory challenges, infrastructure needs, and technological innovations required for safe and efficient AAM operations. The UAE’s leadership in adopting and implementing emerging technologies in the aviation sector was highlighted, particularly in ensuring the safety of future AAM operations in the region.

Saif Mohammed Al Suwaidi, Director-General of the GCAA, stressed the importance of continuously enhancing safety management capabilities. “Enhancing the efficiency of safety management in aviation operations is a constant priority and a fundamental pillar of the civil aviation system. The UAE is committed to developing its safety management capabilities to keep pace with the rapid changes occurring globally and to anticipate any potential risks that may arise from these changes,” he said.

Aqeel Al Zarouni, Assistant Director-General for Aviation Safety Affairs at the GCAA, in his opening address, acknowledged the complexity introduced by rapid technological advances and operational transformations in the civil aviation sector. He emphasized that the UAE is making concerted efforts to adopt cutting-edge solutions to ensure the safety of this vital industry.

The first day of the conference featured the presentation of the “Safety Marathon” award, organized by the GCAA to promote efforts aligned with sustainable development goals for the national aviation infrastructure. Attendees also discussed topics related to continuous operational safety and the regulatory framework for general aviation, including private jets and business aircraft. Additionally, the new Communicable Disease Management Programme (CAR-CDMP) protocol was introduced, developed in collaboration with the Ministry of Health and Prevention, to prevent the spread of diseases through air travel.

Workshops on the second day included the UAE National Runway Safety Team (NRST) Workshop, which focused on preventing runway and taxiway incursions, and the Fatigue in Maintenance Environment workshop, which explored strategies to mitigate fatigue-related risks for aviation maintenance personnel.

The UAE Aviation Safety Conference 2024 provided a valuable platform for exchanging insights and presenting innovative solutions to the challenges facing the aviation sector. It reinforced the UAE’s leading role in shaping the future of global aviation safety while maintaining the highest standards of operational safety and efficiency.