UAE reaffirms commitment to advanced air mobility infrastructure and regulations
The United Arab Emirates is actively participating in the International Civil Aviation Organization’s (ICAO) inaugural Advanced Air Mobility Symposium (AAM 2024) in Montreal, Canada, reaffirming its commitment to advancing infrastructure and regulations in the rapidly evolving air mobility sector.
In recent years, the nation has made significant strides, establishing itself as a frontrunner in the advanced air mobility (AAM) sector. Its leadership is particularly evident through its pioneering efforts in developing regulations for urban air mobility, including air taxis and vertiports.
During AAM 2024, H.E. Mohamed Abdulla Al Salami, Chairman of the Fujairah Department of Civil Aviation and Deputy Chairman of the Board of Directors of the General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA), outlined the country’s vision for AAM.
UAE’s mobility strategy
He emphasised the UAE’s dedication to setting global standards and fostering international cooperation in both technology development and regulatory frameworks.
In a statement released by the GCAA regarding the UAE’s participation in the exhibition held alongside AAM 2024, Al Salami commended the exceptional organisation of the UAE Pavilion.
The pavilion showcases a diverse array of entities, including the UAE Cyber Security Council, Abu Dhabi Investment Office (ADIO), Integrated Transport Centre (ITC) – Abu Dhabi Mobility (AD Mobility), Dubai Civil Aviation Authority (DCAA), Advanced Technology Research Council, FANS, EDGE (a leading technology and defence group), High Lander (specialising in drone traffic management), Etisalat by e&, Etihad Aviation Training, Aspire, and pioneering aviation companies such as Joby Aviation, Archer Aviation, Volar, Beta, and Multi-Level Group (MLG).
Al Salami further emphasised the strategic role of Fujairah in supporting the UAE’s aviation ambitions. “The presence of Fujairah Air Navigation Services (FANS) at this symposium reflects our strategic importance in the UAE’s aviation sector. Through close collaboration with the GCAA and ICAO, we ensure the provision of essential training and the development of international aviation standards,” he said.
In related news, Joby Aviation recently applied for certification to become an approved air taxi operator in the UAE, further demonstrating the country’s growing role in advancing air mobility technologies.
Beyond national contributions, AAM 2024 underscores the global potential of AAM technologies. ICAO is encouraging the deployment of these innovations to enhance aviation’s role as a catalyst for sustainable development worldwide.
AAM is introducing capabilities across sectors including healthcare, agriculture, water supply and monitoring, wildfire control, and transportation of passengers, mail, and cargo.
Additionally, AAM holds the promise of accelerated development in many emerging economies, potentially allowing them to overcome traditional infrastructure limitations.