Airways and GCAA confirm cooperation agreement
23 May 2025
Airways New Zealand and the General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) of the United Arab Emirates have signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to strengthen collaboration and enhance the safety and efficiency of air traffic services across their regions.
The MOU, signed at Airspace World in Lisbon, establishes a framework for cooperation in several key areas. These include enhancing integrated safety management systems and safety culture, with a focus on improving systems, processes and safety leadership to strengthen safety performance. The two organisations will also share operational best practices in air traffic management, aiming to deliver more efficient and effective services.
In the technology and innovation space, the MOU provides for collaboration on the use of existing and emerging technologies, including artificial intelligence and cybersecurity. It also supports closer cooperation in aeronautical information management, airspace and instrument flight procedure design, and air navigation services training.
A collaborative approach is essential to meeting the challenges and opportunities facing the global air traffic management industry, says Airways Chief Executive James Young.
“Airways has built a solid history of working in partnership with other air navigation service providers. This agreement strengthens that foundation, enabling us to help shape even safer, more efficient and resilient air traffic management services for the future.”
Airways has a longstanding working relationship with GCAA, providing air traffic control training services through its commercial subsidiary, Airways International. This agreement expands on that relationship, fostering further collaboration in a variety of key areas.
GCAA Assistant Director General Air Navigation Services, Ahmed Al Jallaf says: “As a leading global hub for civil aviation, the UAE plays a central role in advancing air navigation services and shaping future standards. This agreement with Airways New Zealand reflects our commitment to continuous improvement through international collaboration. By sharing expertise and exploring emerging technologies, we aim to further enhance the safety, efficiency, and resilience of air traffic management—both within the UAE and in the wider global context”