Ongoing regional airspace design leading to significant gains to Gulf air traffic management

2nd day of World Aviation Safety Summit addresses air traffic issues within GCC region and impact on safety

Dubai, UAE, April 27, 2016:   A common strategy and platform is needed across GCC to continue improving airspace use and safety according to Philip Marques, Head of DWC approach, DANS speaking today at the World Aviation Safety Summit, being held in Dubai. 
With airspace in high demand and growth in flights continuing, industry leaders discussed how the Middle East can ensure resilient, safe operations and meet the demands of multiple airlines and airports in limited capacity airspace. 

Marques added that the ongoing airspace design has brought together regional players leading to significant gains in communications between them in an area which used to be segregated not long ago. He also argued that it may not be necessary to have a Gulf Control system in the region, which has long been advocated for by other air navigation service providers, but said that it’s important to keep national centres that have local knowledge and expertise. What’s most crucial is that the control centres are driven to improve services by working together across the region to continue developing aviation, according to Marques. 
Thorsten Wehe, Executive Secretary, IFATSEA, commented that a Gulf Control system could help improve capacity and establish common standards in training and operations across the GCC region - all of which will improve safety for the industry. 

George Rhodes, Assistant Director, Safety and Flight Operations, Infrastructure, Middle East & North Africa, IATA explained how airlines should continually evaluate airspace for safety, security and efficiency of which includes infrastructure capabilities.

Rhodes demonstrated how a single or multitude of factors can determine airspace avoidance by one or many airlines. He added that “the value of timely information within aviation is a critical part of all stakeholder operations. Predictability adds a layer of safety.” IATA is bringing together ANSPs for the first time and some who have not met in years which is very important to improving safety and operations, according to Rhodes. 

The UAE was ranked highest in the world in compliance with international aviation safety standards after intensive audit through the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO)’s Universal Safety Oversight Audit Programme. The UAE scored a success rate of 98.86 per cent, which is the highest rate in history given by ICAO.

Hosted by the Dubai Civil Aviation Authority, and organised by Streamline Marketing Group, the Summit is facilitating discussions, partnerships and strategic planning that will advance excellence in aviation safety. DCAA confirmed that the World Aviation Safety Summit will be returning next year for the fifth edition.