The General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) recently organized an Air Accident Investigation Forum at the Emirates Aviation Training Academy located in Al Maktoum International Airport.
This event was part of GCAA’s ongoing dedication to enhancing aviation safety standards and improving national coordination mechanisms within the United Arab Emirates.
Key government entities participated in the forum, including representatives from the Ministry of Defense and the Ministry of Interior, as well as attendees from various airports and airlines. The purpose was to boost capabilities in air accident investigations and foster collaboration among relevant organizations in emergency response efforts.
The forum was inaugurated by Omar Bin Ghalib, the Deputy Director-General of GCAA, who emphasized the crucial role of the Air Accident Investigation Department as a foundational element in the civil aviation sector. He highlighted the necessity for continued improvement in coordination and communication with various stakeholders to ensure efficient responses and unified efforts.
The Ministry of Defense presented strategies for responding to incidents over water bodies, while the Ministry of Interior reviewed protocols for managing accidents that occur outside airport parameters. Additionally, the Abu Dhabi Police General Command shared insights on protocols for autopsies and aviation medicine.
The second day of the forum emphasized the roles and responsibilities of airports and aviation operators during investigation phases. It also covered joint coordination mechanisms, operational procedures, and discussed key challenges and lessons learned. The forum concluded with a series of recommendations aimed at enhancing integration and cooperation among all parties involved.
Captain Aisha Mohammed Al Hammadi, Assistant Director-General for Air Accident Investigations, stated that the forum reaffirms GCAA’s commitment to upholding international safety standards and establishing a comprehensive national approach to air accident investigations and emergency responses within the UAE. This commitment includes strengthening partnerships with relevant entities and coordinating efforts to ensure effective search and rescue operations and timely initiation of investigations.