Saudi Arabia Hosts Fourth Middle East Regional Aviation Security Meeting To Enhance Cooperation And Standards

The General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) President, Abdulaziz Al-Duailej, has opened the fourth meeting of the Middle East Regional Aviation Security and Facilitation Group (MID-RASFG/4) in Riyadh. This event aims to boost regional cooperation and share expertise in aviation security and travel facilitation. The two-day meeting is co-hosted by GACA and the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) Middle East Regional Office.

Al-Duailej stressed Saudi Arabia's dedication to adhering to ICAO international standards during his speech. He highlighted the Kingdom's notable achievements, such as introducing a secure electronic passport and participating in the Public Key Directory. The use of advanced technologies like big data and artificial intelligence for inspection and monitoring was also emphasized.

Saudi Arabia has demonstrated its commitment to aviation security with a 94.4% compliance rate in the ICAO aviation safety audit report. The country also achieved 100% compliance with Annex 9 to the Chicago Convention standards, securing a seventh-place ranking among G20 countries in aviation security.

The Kingdom presented an initiative for unified air travel requirements aimed at establishing a standardized global health framework for aviation. This initiative seeks to facilitate travel, unify health information protocols, and ensure traveler health and safety.

The meeting will cover several important topics, including following up on recommendations from the previous meeting (MID-RASFG/3). It will focus on developing regional and global aviation security capabilities, discussing aviation security policy, counter-terrorism measures, and improving airport security procedures through advanced technology.

Additionally, participants will examine how aviation-related legislation impacts public security. They will also review Saudi Arabia's experience in quality control and compliance with international security standards.

This gathering highlights Saudi Arabia's proactive role in enhancing aviation security within the region. By sharing knowledge and collaborating with other nations, the Kingdom aims to strengthen global aviation safety measures effectively.

With inputs from SPA