Montreal: The General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA), in partnership with the UAE Government Leaders Programme, has initiated the second cohort of the National Programme for Future Leaders in Civil Aviation. This launch took place alongside the 42nd Assembly of the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) in Montreal, Canada. The event witnessed the presence of Abdulla bin Touq Al Marri, Minister of Economy and Tourism and Chairman of the GCAA Board, Saif Mohammed Al Suwaidi, Director-General of the GCAA, and other senior officials from the UAE delegation attending the ICAO Assembly.
According to Emirates News Agency, the programme is designed to empower a select group of young Emirati talents who demonstrate leadership potential and a strong commitment to the sector. By enhancing their professional and leadership capabilities, the initiative aims to prepare these individuals to contribute significantly to the UAE’s aviation sector growth and prosperity.
Al Marri stated, “We are pleased to launch the second cohort of the National Programme for Future Leaders in Civil Aviation. This programme reflects the UAE’s commitment to investing in young minds and enabling them to play an active role in leading the aviation sector locally and internationally.” He emphasized that the programme is a strategic move towards developing national talents to support the country’s future vision in this key sector.
Saif Mohammed Al Suwaidi highlighted the GCAA’s dedication to nurturing young national talents, viewing them as essential to sustaining the aviation sector’s competitiveness and progress. He stressed the importance of preparing future leaders to ensure the UAE’s continuing success in civil aviation.
Eng. Saeed Al Suwaidi, UAE’s Permanent Representative to ICAO, expressed confidence that the participating Emirati talents will enhance the UAE’s presence in international organizations and reinforce its role as a global aviation development supporter.
The programme offers an integrated strategic platform that combines practical and academic training in leadership, protocol, and strategic planning within civil aviation. Participants engage in hands-on activities alongside leadership and national initiatives, contributing to shaping the future of civil aviation both locally and internationally.
This year, the cohort comprises 21 promising young Emirati talents from various aviation sectors in the UAE, including the GCAA, Etihad Airways, Abu Dhabi Airports, Sharjah Civil Aviation Department, and Ras Al Khaimah Civil Aviation Department. The programme spans 10 months, during which participants gain practical experience and advanced strategic knowledge to enhance their leadership skills and reinforce the UAE’s position as a leading force in aviation’s future.