Sharjah Crown Prince Launches Airport Training Centre To Enhance Civil Aviation Skills And Workforce Representation
H.H. Sheikh Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Crown Prince and Deputy Ruler of Sharjah, officially opened the Sharjah Airport Professional Training Centre recently. This centre aims to bolster the civil aviation sector in the UAE, contributing to its ongoing development. Sheikh Khaled bin Issam Al Qasimi, Chairman of both the Department of Civil Aviation and the training centre, welcomed attendees and highlighted the centre's role in enhancing aviation skills and increasing Emirati workforce participation.
The UAE has made significant strides in aviation, becoming a global hub through substantial investments in infrastructure and technology. Sheikh Khaled emphasised that Sharjah excels in various fields, including aviation, aligning with the UAE leadership's visionary goals. He also noted the importance of international partnerships and sustainability efforts to reduce aviation's environmental impact using advanced technologies.
The new training centre is designed to prepare certified air traffic controllers and a skilled local workforce for the aviation industry. It offers state-of-the-art programmes and technologies to equip participants with necessary skills. The Crown Prince viewed a presentation detailing the centre's establishment, services, and training programmes aimed at fostering innovation within the sector.
During his visit, Sheikh Sultan toured the facility, which is accredited by the UAE General Civil Aviation Authority. He explored specialised classrooms, simulators, a library, and a café within the centre. The building features modern technology supporting aviation sector needs and offers specialised courses like air traffic controller training and aviation security.
The centre boasts a 3D simulation system akin to those used in air traffic control towers worldwide. This system can simulate various airport scenarios globally, allowing users to communicate wirelessly with pilots and ground staff. It also trains vehicle operators and airport ground crew using different aircraft types.
Sheikh Sultan met Maryam Al Hammadi, the UAE's first female air traffic controller who graduated from this centre. She now works at Sharjah Civil Aviation Department and explained her role in managing air traffic through communication with aircraft from control towers.
Engagement with Students
The Crown Prince visited classrooms accommodating over 100 students from inside and outside the UAE. He learned about airport police and customs efforts through specialised training programmes focused on airport security using advanced detection devices. These initiatives aim to enhance skills across various roles within the aviation industry.
The event saw attendance from several dignitaries such as Sheikh Khaled bin Abdullah Al Qasimi, Chairman of Sharjah Ports, Customs, Free Zones Authority; Sheikh Faisal bin Saud Al Qasimi, Director of Sharjah International Airport Authority; along with other senior officials from the aviation sector.
This initiative underscores Sharjah's commitment to advancing its civil aviation system by improving personnel efficiency while encouraging innovation through legislative developments alongside technical advancements within this vital sector.
With inputs from WAM


