Abu dhabi: The UAE General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) has officially published its Civil Aviation Regulation (CAR) on Aerodrome Crisis Management (ACM), a regulation designed to transform how aerodromes prepare for, respond to, and recover from crises, emergencies, and operational disruptions.
According to Emirates News Agency, the regulation was developed through collaboration with the UAE's airports and international best practices. It establishes a holistic, integrated, and proactive framework for aerodrome crisis management.
This regulation marks a strategic shift away from traditional reactive and compartmentalized models toward a coordinated, performance-driven approach that enhances safety, business continuity, and operational excellence across the aviation sector. Saif Mohammed Al Suwaidi, Director-General of the GCAA, stated that the regulation reflects the UAE's commitment to proactive aviation leadership, ensuring aerodromes are better prepared for crises and can emerge stronger and more unified.
The new regulation sets a global benchmark for managing complex challenges such as pandemics and natural disasters. It mandates comprehensive crisis planning, inter-agency coordination, continuous training, and the integration of risk-based decision-making into daily operations. Eng. Aqeel Al Zarouni, Assistant Director-General for Aviation Safety Affairs, highlighted that the regulation was developed through extensive consultation with airport operators and aviation stakeholders, making it both practical and scalable.
This advancement is set to elevate the UAE's reputation as a safe and resilient aviation hub, offering a model framework for regulators and operators worldwide.