Guyana joins countries around the world in celebrating International Civil Aviation Day this year under the theme “Safe Skies and a Sustainable Future for All.” In his official message, the Director General of the Guyana Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA), Lieutenant Colonel (Ret’d) Egbert Field, emphasizes the country’s rapid progress in aviation development and its growing role within the global aviation community.
The Director General affirmed that Guyana remains committed to upholding the Standards and Recommended Practices (SARPs) established by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO). He highlighted that this dedication continues to enhance the country’s reputation as an emerging aviation hub in the region and promotes broader goals of economic growth, social integration, and international connectivity.
Over the past year, Guyana has made significant improvements to its air transport infrastructure and policy framework. Key milestones include starting construction on a second terminal at Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA) and completing a detailed airspace optimization study for the Georgetown Flight Information Region (FIR). The country has also expanded its aircraft registry, upgraded facilities at Ogle Airport, and adopted modern SID and STAR procedures to enhance flight efficiency and safety.
International cooperation has achieved significant progress. Guyana signed new air service agreements with six ICAO member states, expanding its global network to over 50 international aviation partnerships. Memoranda of Understanding were also signed with Cabo Verde and the Dominican Republic to support joint aviation initiatives and capacity-building efforts.
A notable achievement this year is the progress of the Civil Aviation Training School (CATS), which recently received the prestigious ICAO TrainAir Plus Accreditation. This recognition confirms the school’s ability to deliver world-class aviation training, including virtual courses accessible to professionals across the Caribbean region.
Mr. Field also highlighted the country’s strong performance in recent ICAO audits. Guyana scored 66.36% in the Universal Safety Oversight Audit Programme (USOAP) and 80.12% in the Universal Security Audit Programme (USAP), showing consistent progress in safety, security, and regulatory compliance.
Looking ahead, Guyana is preparing to launch the ICAO NGAP+ program, a key component of President Dr. Irfaan Ali’s plan to establish the country as a major aviation hub in the Caribbean and South America. The Director General praised President Ali and Minister of Public Utilities and Aviation Deodat Indar for their continued support in elevating Guyana’s aviation sector on the global stage. He also congratulated Onuma Toshiyuki, the newly elected ICAO Council President.
International Civil Aviation Day, observed annually on December 7, highlights the vital role aviation plays in global development. For Guyana, this year’s celebration underscores significant progress, renewed goals, and a commitment to building a safer, more sustainable future in the skies.