MUSCAT – The approval was issued during the 46th session of the Supreme Council held in the Kingdom of Bahrain.

The CAA stated that the decision marks a strategic step reflecting the GCC’s commitment to unifying efforts and advancing the Gulf civil aviation system in line with global technical and legislative developments. It is expected to enhance safety, security, sustainability, and competitiveness across the region’s aviation sector.

According to the Authority, the move also underscores a growing Gulf approach toward building an integrated civil aviation model based on legislative harmonization, coordinated international positions, strengthened infrastructure, and the development of national expertise—ultimately leading to a unified aviation system that meets the requirements of safe, regular, and sustainable air transport.

His Excellency Eng. Naif bin Ali Al Abri, Chairman of the Civil Aviation Authority, said the establishment of the new body represents a continuation of the Gulf cooperation trajectory in this vital sector and marks a new phase of joint action. He noted that the initiative reflects the Sultanate of Oman’s commitment to supporting Gulf integration in civil aviation, particularly in enhancing cooperation among Gulf aviation authorities, keeping pace with technological advancements, developing legislation, and building aviation capabilities. It will also contribute to aligning visions and positions in international forums, reinforcing the GCC’s presence on the global aviation map.

The Gulf Civil Aviation Authority aims to strengthen cooperation among GCC states by promoting legislative and operational harmonization within a unified Gulf framework capable of keeping pace with rapid global developments in the aviation industry. Its mandate includes unifying civil aviation policies and regulations, developing joint projects and initiatives, supporting training and qualification programs for national talent, and encouraging investment in infrastructure such as airports and air navigation systems. It also seeks to enhance environmental sustainability and reinforce the economic foundations of the air transport sector.

The Authority’s role extends to facilitating travel procedures, coordinating efforts related to passenger rights, and improving the quality of services across the Gulf civil aviation system, thereby bolstering the region’s competitiveness internationally.

To achieve its strategic goals, the Gulf Civil Aviation Authority will assume a range of responsibilities, including coordinating unified Gulf positions in international aviation forums and organizations, supporting integration among Gulf air transport companies, and strengthening the aviation industry by monitoring global technological and regulatory developments. It will work to harmonize civil aviation legislation and procedures, implement the standards and recommended practices of the Convention on International Civil Aviation, and promote cooperation on regional air navigation plans issued by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO).

The Authority will also facilitate the exchange of aviation safety and security information, coordinate training programs, analyze technical and operational challenges faced by member states, and prepare economic, legal, and technical studies to support the development of the GCC civil aviation system.
The approval of the Gulf Civil Aviation Authority comes in parallel with the Sultanate of Oman’s ongoing efforts in joint GCC initiatives. Oman, represented by the CAA, recently participated in the 21st meeting of the Executive Committee for Civil Aviation in the GCC, hosted by Kuwait last November by the Kuwaiti Directorate General of Civil Aviation in cooperation with the GCC General Secretariat. The meeting discussed several strategic files, foremost among them the establishment of the Gulf Civil Aviation Authority.