The United Arab Emirates, through the General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA), organised the High-Level Youth Summit on Aviation, designed to empower the next generation of aviation leaders.
The Summit was held in collaboration with the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) and supported by Brazil’s National Civil Aviation Agency (ANAC), Airports Council International (ACI), the International Coordinating Council of Aerospace Industries Associations (ICCAIA), EUROCONTROL, and the Global Aviation and Aerospace Skills Taskforce (GAAST). It took place alongside the 42nd ICAO Assembly in Montréal.
Opening the event, Saif Mohammed Al Suwaidi, Director-General of GCAA, highlighted that the Summit reflects a shared global vision that the future of aviation depends on the talent, creativity, and leadership of young professionals. He emphasised that the event aims to empower youth to take an active role in shaping the industry’s future.
Al Suwaidi noted that the aviation sector faces pressing challenges, including digital transformation, climate change, and building a sustainable ecosystem while supporting industry growth. He stressed that addressing these challenges requires innovative ideas and international collaboration, with youth playing a central role.
The Summit offered a dynamic platform for young participants worldwide to engage with ICAO’s Next Generation of Aviation Professionals (NGAP) Programme, exchange ideas, and build connections centred on innovation and diversity. It also showcased practical applications of artificial intelligence in enhancing aviation safety and operational efficiency.
The programme featured senior officials from leading international aviation organisations, alongside youth-led panels, discussions, and specialised workshops covering topics such as future skills in aviation and aerospace, new technologies in airport operations, sustainability, innovation, and digital transformation.
The Summit also provided opportunities for networking and knowledge-sharing, supporting career development for young professionals and strengthening international cooperation across the aviation sector.
(Inputs from WAM)
