KUWAIT CITY, Dec 8: On Sunday, Duaij Al-Otaibi, Acting Director General of the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), emphasized Kuwait's commitment to achieving the highest standards of security and safety in the aviation sector. This effort is carried out in cooperation with the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) and various regional and international organizations.

Speaking to Kuwait News Agency (KUNA) on the occasion of International Civil Aviation Day, which is celebrated annually on December 7, Al-Otaibi highlighted Kuwait's successful development of air transport infrastructure. The country has adopted the best international standards in the civil aviation industry, contributing to enhanced air service efficiency, better passenger experience, and improved safety and comfort in flights.

Al-Otaibi also noted the establishment of new facilities, including a state-of-the-art cargo city, a modern runway, and a specialized administrative building. Furthermore, a new simulator, the most advanced in the Middle East, has been introduced to train air traffic controllers and enhance the skills of air navigation staff. A new control tower, equipped with the latest international systems, has also been built, and a contract is underway with an international company to operate it and train national staff in Civil Aviation.

The DGCA has adopted a strategic plan aligned with the future of the aviation sector and in compliance with ICAO systems and procedures. Al-Otaibi stressed the importance of enhancing the skills of national staff and increasing the state's revenues from the aviation sector, which will also contribute to improved aviation safety and security.

He further mentioned that the Civil Aviation Authority continues to support ICAO’s programs and policies, staying up-to-date with the best international practices. Kuwait has had a long-standing relationship with ICAO, having joined the organization in 1960.

Al-Otaibi expressed hope that the law to transform the General Administration of Civil Aviation into an independent technical body would be approved soon, which would bring about significant improvements to Kuwait’s civil aviation system and help achieve the objectives of the general strategy.

Founded in April 1948, ICAO is a United Nations agency headquartered in Montreal, Canada. Its mission is to develop air navigation technologies, plan for air transport, and ensure the safety, security, and growth of the aviation industry.