President Dr Mohamed Irfaan Ali has described Guyana’s aviation industry as being in “take-off mode”, as the country moves to expand connectivity, modernise its regulatory system and develop the human resources needed to support the sector’s growth.
The President made the remarks during his feature address at the opening of the 3rd ICAO/EASA Regional Safety Oversight Organisations (RSOOs) and Regional Accident and Incident Investigation Organisations (RAIOs) Conference at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre.
With Guyana’s aviation industry expanding rapidly, President Ali stressed the importance of ensuring that passengers across the region are treated under consistent and transparent security procedures.
He called for greater standardisation of transit measures at airports, arguing that significant differences in security protocols can create perceptions of unequal treatment and discrimination among passengers.
DIGITAL TECHNOLOGY TO SHAPE AVIATION
President Ali said the future development of aviation cannot be separated from technological advancement.
He urged regulators and industry stakeholders to consider the growing role of digital technologies and artificial intelligence as they develop policies and systems to support the next phase of aviation growth.
According to the President, modernisation of Guyana’s aviation regulatory framework will require more than the development of new rules. It will also depend on stronger partnerships, technical expertise and collaboration with international aviation organisations.
He said these partnerships can help Guyana build the capacity required to maintain high standards while responding to the changing demands of the aviation industry.
PUSH FOR AVIATION EDUCATION
The President also signalled Guyana’s willingness to work with international partners to establish an internationally accredited aviation educational institution.
Such an institution, he said, would help prepare the next generation of aviation professionals and provide training across the different disciplines within the industry.
The initiative is expected to support the development of local technical capacity as Guyana’s aviation sector continues to expand.
President Ali said investment in education and specialised training will be an important part of ensuring that the country has the skilled workforce needed to sustain the industry over the long term.
OPEN TO AIRLINE HUB PARTNERSHIPS
The President further announced that Guyana is prepared to engage airlines interested in establishing their aviation hubs at Terminal Two of the Cheddi Jagan International Airport.
He said the Government is open to discussions with airlines that see Guyana as a potential base for expanding their regional operations.
The development of Terminal Two, coupled with Guyana’s increasing international connectivity, could provide additional opportunities for airlines seeking to expand their presence in the region.
President Ali’s remarks came as international aviation officials and experts gathered in Georgetown for discussions focused on strengthening safety oversight, accident and incident investigation systems, regulatory co-operation and the effective use of resources.
HIGH-LEVEL ATTENDANCE
First Lady Mrs Arya Ali and Prime Minister, Brigadier (Ret’d), the Honourable Mark Phillips, were among the senior officials attending the opening ceremony.
Members of Cabinet also participated in the event, which brought together representatives from the international aviation community to discuss the future of aviation safety and regulatory development.
The conference provides Guyana with a platform to deepen international partnerships as the country seeks to position its aviation sector for continued growth and greater regional connectivity.