Montreal: Following its approval by the UAE Cabinet, the General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) has submitted the third edition of the UAE State Action Plan to Reduce Aviation Emissions to the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) during the 42nd ICAO Assembly, in Montreal, Canada.
According to Emirates News Agency, the plan was developed in collaboration with key stakeholders across the aviation sector in the UAE, aiming to support the nation’s global commitments to climate action while ensuring sustainable economic growth in the aviation industry.
This third edition reinforces the UAE’s leadership in this area. The first edition of the plan was submitted to ICAO in 2012, marking the UAE as the first country in the region to do so, followed by a more detailed version in 2018.
The latest update reflects the UAE’s proactive stance on global climate action and forms part of the country’s commitment to submitting national plans to reduce aviation emissions, in line with ICAO Assembly Resolution A37-19 (2010) and subsequent resolutions.
The updated plan adopts a comprehensive ‘basket of measures’ to reduce aviation emissions, including 42 projects in operations and technology, and 13 projects related to sustainable aviation and low-carbon fuels.
These projects were prepared in partnership with leading national entities, including the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment, the Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure, Masdar, ADNOC, ENOC, Dubai Air Navigation Services (DANS), Abu Dhabi Airports, Dubai Airports, Sharjah International Airport, Ras Al Khaimah Civil Aviation Authority, Emirates Airline, Etihad Airways, flydubai, and Dnata.
Abdulla bin Touq Al Marri, UAE Minister of Economy and Tourism, and Chairman of the GCAA Board, commented that the adoption of the third edition of the UAE State Action Plan is a significant step reflecting the UAE’s commitment to global climate action and the wise vision of the country’s leadership. This adoption aligns with the resolutions issued by ICAO, and the UAE continues to lead regionally and globally through strategic partnerships and practical initiatives that enhance its competitiveness.
Saif Mohammed Al Suwaidi, Director-General of the GCAA, said that the updated National Action Plan reflects the collective efforts of all stakeholders in the UAE aviation sector. It provides a clear strategic pathway to reduce emissions through 2050 via tangible projects, advanced policies, and innovative solutions, underscoring the UAE’s steadfast commitment to supporting ICAO resolutions.
Since 2010, the UAE has been at the forefront of countries voluntarily submitting national plans to reduce aviation emissions, stimulating related sectors to adopt innovative solutions that help reduce emissions.
With this latest update, the UAE reaffirms its commitment to advancing sustainable aviation and building a resilient and environmentally responsible future for the industry, balancing economic growth with environmental stewardship.