DGCA MID/1- REPORT INTERNATIONAL CIVIL AVIATION ORGANIZATION REPORT OF THE FIRST MEETING OF THE DIRECTORS GENERAL OF CIVIL AVIATION- MIDDLE EAST REGION (DGCA-MID/1) (Abu Dhabi, UAE, 22-24 March 2011) Prepared by Middle East Regional Office
The designations employed and the presentation of material in this publication do not imply the expression of any opinion whatsoever on the part of ICAO concerning the legal status of any country, territory, city or area or of its authorities, or concerning the delimitation of its frontier or boundaries.
TABLE OF CONTENTS Page PART I - HISTORY OF THE MEETING 1. Introduction... i 2. Opening Ceremony... i 3. Secretariat... i 4. Languages & Administration... i 5. Conclusions... ii-iv PART II - REPORT ON AGENDA ITEMS Report on Agenda Item 1... 1-1 Report on Agenda Item 2... 2-1 Report on Agenda Item 3... 3-1 Appendix 3A Report on Agenda Item 4... 4-1/4-6 Report on Agenda Item 5... 5-1/5-6 Report on Agenda Item 6... 6-1/6-2 Report on Agenda Item 7... 7-1/7-2 Report on Agenda Item 8... 8-1 Report on Agenda Item 9... 9-1 Report on Agenda Item 10... 10-1 Report on Agenda Item 11... 11-1 Attachments Attachment A... H.E. UAE Minister of Economy and Chairman of GCAA Opening Remarks Attachment B... ICAO Secretary General Opening Remarks Attachment C... List of Working & Information Papers Attachment D... List of Participants ------------
-i- PART I - HISTORY OF THE MEETING 1. INTRODUCTION 1.1 The First Meeting of the Directors General of Civil Aviation-Middle East Region (DGCA-MID/1) was hosted by the United Arab Emirates (UAE), General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) and held in Abu Dhabi, UAE from 22 to 24 March 2011. 1.2 The meeting was attended by a total of Fifty Six (56) participants, which included experts from Eleven (11) States (Bahrain, Egypt, Jordan, Kuwait, Lebanon, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Sudan and United Arab Emirates) and Five (5) International/Regional Organizations (AACO, ACAC, CANSO, IATA and IFALPA). The list of participants is at Attachment D to the Report. 2. OPENING CEREMONY 2.1 The meeting was opened by His Excellency, Eng. Sultan Bin Saeed Al Mansouri, Minister of Economy and Chairman of GCAA, who extended a warm welcome to all Delegates and expressed the importance and satisfaction attached to the decision to hold such an event in UAE. He wished the Meeting fruitful deliberations. The full text of the Minister s Opening Remarks is at Attachment A to the Report. 2.2 Mr. Raymond Benjamin, Secretary General of ICAO, welcomed all Delegates to Abu Dhabi. He expressed ICAO s sincere gratitude and appreciation to UAE and especially to H.E. Eng. Sultan Bin Saeed Al Mansouri, Minister of Economy and Chairman of GCAA and Mr. Saif Bin Mohammed Al-Suwaidi, Director General of GCAA for hosting this important meeting in Abu Dhabi and for the generous hospitality extended to all participants. Mr. Benjamin highlighted the major achievements and planned activities related to the three ICAO Strategic Objectives (Safety, Security and Environmental protection and the sustainable development of air transport). The full text of the ICAO Secretary General Opening Remarks is at Attachment B to the Report. 3. SECRETARIAT 3.1 Mr. Mohamed R. M. Khonji, ICAO Middle East Regional Director acted as the Secretary of the Meeting, assisted by Mr. Jehad Faqir, Deputy Regional Director (DEPRD) and Mr. Mohamed Smaoui, Regional Officer, Air Navigation Services/Aeronautical Information Management (ANS/AIM) from the ICAO Middle East Regional Office. 3.2 The meeting was also supported by Mr. Iván Galán, Director Technical Co-operation Bureau ICAO, Montréal. 4. LANGUAGE AND ADMINISTRATION 4.1 The proceedings were conducted in English and Arabic and the meeting documentation was issued in both languages. Translation and simultaneous interpretation services were also provided.
-ii- 5. CONCLUSIONS 5.1 The meeting, after reviewing and discussing the working papers listed in DGCA- MID/1 IP/1 at Attachment C to the Report, developed a total of thirteen (13) Conclusions as follows: DGCA-MID/1 CONCLUSION 1/1 - STATES SUPPORT FOR THE USE OF THE ARABIC LANGUAGE IN THE MID REGION That, to support the use of the Arabic Language in the MID Region, States coordinate with the ICAO MID Regional Office for the provision of required resources through either voluntary contributions or secondment of appropriate Language Expert DGCA-MID/1 CONCLUSION 1/2 - ELIMINATION OF AIR NAVIGATION DEFICIENCIES IN THE MID REGION That, States: a) accord high priority to the elimination of air navigation deficiencies; in particular by allocating the necessary budget to ensure that their Civil Aviation Authorities have and retain a sufficient number of qualified technical personnel, and provide appropriate initial, on-the-job and recurrent training; b) work cooperatively towards the elimination of common deficiencies; and c) consider the use of the Regional Safety Oversight Organizations (RSOOs) as an efficient mechanism for, inter-alia, the provision of appropriate training to technical staff and elimination of common deficiencies. DGCA-MID/1 CONCLUSION 1/3 - MIDDLE EAST REGIONAL AIRSPACE REVIEW (MIDRAR) That, a) States committed to the UAE declaration are encouraged to: i. support CANSO efforts to carry out a Middle East Regional Airspace Review (MIDRAR), in close coordination with ICAO and all concerned parties/stakeholders; ii. support the creation of the MIDRAR Team; and iii. provide necessary information, data and other resources, including Specialist input, as required.
-iii- b) CANSO or one of its Members present the outcome of the MIDRAR to the appropriate MIDANPIRG subsidiary bodies (ARN TF and ATM/SAR/AIS SG) to initiate necessary amendments to the Air Navigation Plan(s), as appropriate. DGCA-MID/1 CONCLUSION 1/4 - IMPLEMENTATION OF THE ICAO NEW FPL FORMAT That, considering the importance of timely implementation of the ICAO new Flight Plan Format, MID States are urged to provide necessary resources and support to expedite implementation of the ICAO New Flight Plan Format. DGCA-MID/1 CONCLUSION 1/5 - MID REGION AIS DATABASE (MIDAD) That, a) Jordan and Bahrain take the lead in carrying out a study/business case pertaining to the establishment of a MID Region AIS Database (MIDAD), in close coordination with ICAO; b) States provide all necessary information and support for the achievement of the study; and c) Jordan and Bahrain present the outcome of the study to the appropriate MIDANPIRG subsidiary bodies (AIS/MAP TF and ATM/SAR/AIS SG). DGCA-MID/1 CONCLUSION 1/6 - CONTINGENCY PLANS That, for the interest of ensuring safety and continuity of civil aviation, MID States: a) accord high priority and secure necessary resources to update, complete and promulgate their contingency plans; and b) send copies of their contingency plans (even those which are still in draft format) to the ICAO MID Regional Office as soon as possible. DGCA-MID/1 CONCLUSION 1/7 - SUPPORTING THE TOP LEVEL SAFETY TEAM (TLST) That, recognizing the important role of TLST, in implementing the recommendations of the Global Aviation Safety Roadmap (GASR), MID States are encouraged to commit resources to the work of the TLST.
-iv- DGCA-MID/1 CONCLUSION 1/8 - REGIONAL STRATEGY FOR COLLECTION OF SAFETY DATA That, recognizing the importance of safety data for SMS and SSP programmes, MID States to implement ECCAIRS for collecting safety data; and attend ECCAIRS training courses organized by the ICAO MID Regional Office. DGCA-MID/1 CONCLUSION 1/9 - ESTABLISHMENT OF RSOOs AND RAIOs IN THE MID REGION That, in order to strengthen their safety oversight capabilities and solve common safety-related deficiencies, in an effective, cooperative and sustainable manner, MID States: a) cooperate towards the establishment of Regional Safety Oversight Organizations (RSOOs) and Regional Accident and Incident Investigation Organizations (RAIOs); and b) further address the subject within the framework of RASG-MID. DGCA-MID/1 CONCLUSION 1/10 - WORKSHOP ON REGIONAL SAFETY OVERSIGHT PROGRAMMES That, as part of the Regional preparations for the establishment of Regional Safety Oversight Organizations (RSOOs) and Regional Accident and Incident Investigation Organizations (RAIOs), the ICAO MID Regional Office organize a Workshop on Regional Safety Oversight Programmes, in order to address the technical, institutional and financial aspects related to these Regional/Sub-Regional projects. DGCA-MID/1 CONCLUSION 1/11 - ESTABLISHMENT OF A MID SECURITY ACTION GROUP That, considering the importance of strengthening the cooperation in Security matters, States jointly create a MID Security Action Group, in coordination with ICAO, to develop a comprehensive security plan for the MID Region. DGCA-MID/1 CONCLUSION 1/12 - ESTABLISHMENT OF HIGH LEVEL ENVIRONMENTAL REGIONAL GROUP That, in order to address the identified environmental concerns/challenges, States cooperate towards establishment of a High Level Environmental Regional Group.
-v- DGCA-MID/1 CONCLUSION 1/13 - ROLE OF THE ICAO TECHNICAL CO- OPERATION IN THE IMPLEMENTATION OF CIVIL AVIATION PROJECTS That, in accordance with the provisions of Assembly Resolution A36-17, States are encouraged to associate ICAO in their civil aviation projects and advise donors and financing institutions, if any, accordingly. ---------------
1-1 PART II REPORT ON AGENDA ITEMS REPORT ON AGENDA ITEM 1: ADOPTION OF THE PROVISIONAL AGENDA (DGCA-MID/1-WP/1) 1.1. The meeting reviewed and adopted the following Agenda as proposed by the Secretariat in Appendix A to WP/1: Agenda Item 1: Agenda Item 2: Agenda Item 3: Agenda Item 4: Agenda Item 5: Agenda Item 6: Agenda Item 7: Agenda Item 8: Agenda Item 9: Agenda Item 10: Agenda Item 11: Adoption of the Provisional Agenda Election of Chairperson and Vice-Chairperson Managerial issues Air Navigation Aviation Safety Aviation Security Environmental protection Technical Cooperation Air Transport Dates and venues of next meetings Any other Business ----------------------
2-1 REPORT ON AGENDA ITEM 2: ELECTION OF CHAIRPERSON AND VICE CHAIRPERSON (DGCA-MID/1-WP/2) 2.1 The Meeting agreed that the Director General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) of the Host State (or his Representative), should always be elected as the Chairperson of the DGCA-MID meeting. Accordingly, Mr. Saif Bin Mohammed Al-Suwaidi, Director General of the General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) was unanimously elected as the Chairperson of the meeting. 2.2 Mr. Al-Suwaidi, assumed the Chair and thanked the delegates for the honour granted upon him and for the confidence placed in him. He assured the meeting that he would do his best to discharge the responsibility of facilitating the proceedings of the Meeting. 2.3 Captain Abdulrahman Al Gaoud, Undersecretary for Civil Aviation Affairs from Bahrain was also unanimously elected as the Vice-Chairperson of the meeting. ---------------------
3-1 REPORT ON AGENDA ITEM 3: MANAGERIAL ISSUES (DGCA-MID/1-WP/3) 3.1 The meeting reviewed the Guidance Material for the Convening of the Directors General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) Meetings in the Middle East Region as proposed by the Secretariat in Appendix A to WP/3. The meeting agreed that the guidelines assist both the Host State and the ICAO MID Regional Office in the preparatory process for the convening of DGCA Meetings. Accordingly, the meeting endorsed the proposed Guidance Material with minor changes as at Appendix 3A to the Report on Agenda Item 3. 3.2 In connection with the above, the meeting agreed that both the Arabic and English languages should be used for production of documentation and conduct of the DGCA-MID meetings. Taking into consideration the non-availability of Language Officer in the ICAO MID Regional Office and budget constraints, the meeting agreed that MID States should provide necessary support to make available a Language Officer in the ICAO MID Regional Office, through either voluntary contributions or secondment of appropriate Expert. Accordingly, the meeting agreed to the following Conclusion: DGCA-MID/1 CONCLUSION 1/1 - STATES SUPPORT FOR THE USE OF THE ARABIC LANGUAGE IN THE MID REGION That, to support the use of the Arabic Language in the MID Region, States coordinate with the ICAO MID Regional Office for the provision of required resources through either voluntary contributions or secondment of appropriate Language Expert. -------------------
APPENDIX 3A GUIDANCE MATERIAL FOR THE CONVENING OF THE DIRECTORS GENERAL OF CIVIL AVIATION MEETINGS IN THE MIDDLE EAST REGION (DGCA-MID MEETINGS) 1. AIMS AND OBJECTIVES 1.1 The Meeting of Directors General of Civil Aviation is unique owing to its informal nature. It allows the Directors General/Chief Executives of Civil Aviation to discuss any issue, pertaining to any aspect of civil aviation, openly and frankly and facilitates bilateral and regional cooperation in areas of common interest. The forum also provides an essential linkage for all the aeronautical authorities of the Region to establish a very close and personal rapport to facilitate co-ordination of civil aviation activities in the Region. 1.2 Broadly, the aims and objectives of the Directors General of Civil Aviation Meeting in the Middle East Region (DGCA-MID) are to: 2. HOSTING review and exchange information on matters of interest in civil aviation; enhance co-ordination of civil aviation activities in the Region; review of work of the MIDANPIRG and the RASG-MID; develop specific Action Items that are of common interest and importance to the Region; provide overall guidance, harmonization and co-ordination of implementation of standards and procedures in the Region; and follow up by the ICAO Secretariat to coordinate issues of importance in a timely and orderly manner. 2.1 The Meeting is to be hosted bi-annually (every two years) by States within the Middle East Region on a voluntary and rotational basis. 3. PARTICIPATION 3.1 The Meeting essentially comprises Directors General/Chief Executives and representatives from the 15 MID States to which the ICAO Middle East (MID) Regional Office is accredited (Bahrain, Egypt, Iran (Islamic Republic of), Iraq, Jordan, Kuwait, Lebanon, Libya, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Sudan, Syria, United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Yemen). However, the ICAO Regional Office has an integral and a key role. ICAO serves the Meeting as the Secretary, besides remaining closely associated with planning and conduct of the Meeting and eventual follow up on Action Items, which are developed by each Meeting. 3.2 States from outside the MID Region may be invited to participate on ad-hoc basis, when this will be of assistance in the general conduct of the work of the meeting. 3.3 International/Regional Organizations such as AACO, ACAC, CANSO, IATA and IFALPA may be invited on regular basis to attend the DGCA-MID as observers. Other Organizations may also be invited by both the host State and the ICAO MID Regional Office, as deemed necessary.
APPENDIX 3A 3A-2 3.4 The host State also decides on the participation of various agencies/organizations in the State such as representatives from the Air Navigation Service Providers, Airport Authorities, National Airlines and others as considered appropriate. Note: The President of the ICAO Council or the Secretary General of ICAO is usually invited by the host State to attend as a Guest of Honour. 4. CONVENING OF MEETINGS 4.1 A convening letter for a meeting shall be prepared by the ICAO MID Regional Office in coordination with the host State. The convening letter shall be sent to all participants, normally 90 days prior to the meeting. 4.2 The convening letter should include the provisional agenda of the meeting, together with explanatory notes in order to assist participants in preparing for the meeting. 4.3 The list of hotels and bulletin containing administrative and other useful information about the meeting should be prepared by the host State, in coordination with the ICAO Regional Office in order to be attached also to the convening letter. Note: Attractive rates for hotel accommodation for the delegates; if possible, the rate at the venue hotel should be attractive enough so that most of the delegates can afford to stay there. This will avoid logistics difficulties and will facilitate unhindered movements of delegates for meetings, functions, visits etc. 5. ADMINISTRATION OF THE MEETINGS 5.1 The DGCA-MID shall be administered as follows: 6. LANGUAGE a) by a Chairperson elected from the Representatives designated by Member States. The Director General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) of the host State or his Representative, by tradition, will be elected as Chairperson; and the Director General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) of the State hosting the next DGCA-MID meeting, or his Representative should be elected as a Vice-Chairperson; and b) by the ICAO MID Regional Director, Cairo who serves as Secretary of the meeting. 6.1 Arabic and English languages are used for production of documentation and conduct of the meeting. The host State should ensure that all documentation is available in both languages (Arabic and English) and make necessary arrangements, in coordination with the ICAO MID Regional Office, to ensure the interpretation from English to Arabic and vice-versa during the conduct of the meeting (discussions). 7. AGENDA 7.1 The Secretary, in consultation with the Chairperson (Host State) shall establish a provisional agenda for the meeting. 7.2 The provisional agenda with explanatory notes shall be circulated with the convening letter for comments by expected participants.
3A-3 APPENDIX 3A 7.3 At the opening of the meeting, any State or International/Regional Organization may propose the inclusion of additional items on the agenda, and this shall be accepted if the majority of States attending the meeting so agree. 7.4 For standardization purpose and subject to the approval by the meeting, the agenda would not be too different from the following: 1) Adoption of the Agenda 2) Election of Chairperson and Vice-Chairperson 3) Review and Follow-up of Action Items arising from the previous Meeting 4) Managerial issues 5) Air Navigation 6) Aviation Safety 7) Aviation Security 8) Environmental protection 9) Technical Cooperation 10) Air Transport 11) Dates and venues of next meetings 12) Any other business 8. SCHEDULE OF THE MEETING 8.1 The daily schedule of the meeting or order of business should be prepared by the ICAO MID Regional Office in coordination with the host State. The daily schedule should be distributed to the participants during registration. It should provide a detailed list of the activities to be carried out for each session (opening ceremony, presentation/discussion of Working Papers, Information Papers and Presentations, etc). Social events, if any, such as, cultural programmes, visits, sightseeing, lunches, dinners, refreshments, etc, should also be reflected on the daily schedule of the meeting. 9. PREPARATION FOR THE MEETING 9.1 For efficient organization and administration of the Meeting, the host State designates a focal point and eventually establishes an Organizing Committee for coordinating various activities associated with the hosting of this important event, in close cooperation with the ICAO MID Regional Office, so that any unforeseen issue that comes up is resolved in a timely and efficient manner. 9.2 The minimum requirements for the hosting of the meeting are as follows: a) a meeting room with its facilities (including microphones) to serve generally 50-60 participants; Note: number of participants could change depending on the host State attendees b) an adjacent Secretariat Room with one (1) heavy duty photocopying machine; c) one (1) PC and one (1) printer; d) the assistance of one (1) local Secretary fluent in both Arabic and English languages/typing; e) internet connection or wireless internet (at least for the ICAO Secretariat);
APPENDIX 3A 3A-4 f) a Counter for registration of participants; g) writing pads and pens/pencils; h) a video projector with screen and pointer pen; and i) arrangement for two daily coffee breaks. Note: The host State provides the meeting arrangements including Air Tickets and Hotel accommodations together with meet and assist services at Airport for the ICAO Secretariat (staff from the MID Regional Office in Cairo, Egypt) and for The President of the ICAO Council or the Secretary General of ICAO attending as Guest of Honour. -------------
4-1 REPORT ON AGENDA ITEM 4: AIR NAVIGATION Outcome and Follow-up to the Twelfth Meeting of the Middle East Air Navigation Planning and Implementation Regional Group (MIDANPIRG/12) (DGCA-MID/1-WP/4) 4.1 The subject was addressed in the DGCA-MID/1-WP/4 presented by the Secretariat. The meeting was apprised of the outcome of the Twelfth meeting of the Middle East Air Navigation Planning and Implementation Regional Group (MIDANPIRG/12) held in Amman, Jordan, from 17 to 21 October 2010. The Meeting noted that MIDANPIRG/12 adopted 61 Conclusions and 19 Decisions and accordingly urged MID States to take necessary follow-up actions, as appropriate. Challenges in addressing long standing Deficiencies (DGCA-MID/1-WP/5) 4.2 The Secretariat paper DGCA-MID/1-WP/5 titled Challenges in addressing long standing Deficiencies was presented for the consideration of the meeting, which noted the concerns expressed by the various ICAO organs including the Council, the Air Navigation Commission (ANC) and MIDANPIRG on the serious impact the long standing deficiencies have on safety. 4.3 The meeting noted the follow up actions taken by the ICAO MID Regional Office for the elimination of deficiencies, including the development and use of the online MID Air Navigation Deficiency Database (MANDD). 4.4 The meeting noted that MIDANPIRG/12 underlined that the lack of sufficient number of qualified technical staff is the highest contributing factor for the non-elimination of the safety deficiencies in the MID Region (both air navigation deficiencies and USOAP findings). 4.5 The meeting noted that as part of the ICAO MID Regional Office Work Programme, Seminars, Workshops and Training Courses are being organized in the MID Region based on needs identified within the framework of MIDANPIRG or by ICAO (HQ and Regional Office). Nevertheless, the meeting recognized that more effort should be put in the training of technical staff and re-iterated MIDANPIRG/12 recommendations and Conclusion on the subject, including, the call for States to organize at the National Level Seminars, Workshop and Training courses, in coordination with and with the support of the ICAO MID Regional Office, in order to touch a larger number of staff from the State. 4.6 The meeting was of the view that a number of deficiencies were common to many States and accordingly encouraged States to work cooperatively towards the elimination of such deficiencies, in particular with a joint effort for the training of technical staff. It was also highlighted that the Regional Safety Oversight Organizations (RSOOs) could play an important and effective role in this respect. 4.7 Based on the above, the meeting agreed to the following Conclusion:
4-2 DGCA-MID/1 CONCLUSION 1/2 - ELIMINATION OF AIR NAVIGATION DEFICIENCIES IN THE MID REGION That, States: a) accord high priority to the elimination of air navigation deficiencies; in particular by allocating the necessary budget to ensure that their Civil Aviation Authorities have and retain a sufficient number of qualified technical personnel, and provide appropriate initial, on-the-job and recurrent training; b) work cooperatively towards the elimination of common deficiencies; and c) consider the use of the Regional Safety Oversight Organizations (RSOOs) as an efficient mechanism for, inter-alia, the provision of appropriate training to technical staff and elimination of common deficiencies. Middle East Regional Airspace Review (MIDRAR) (DGCA-MID/1-WP/6, WP/7 and WP/8) 4.8 The subject was addressed in three working papers (DGCA-MID/1 WPs/6, 7 and 8) presented by the Secretariat, CANSO and AACO, respectively. In addition, two information papers were associated with this topic (IPs/13 and 18). 4.9 The meeting noted that airspace capacity is an emerging issue in the MID Region as current constraints limit capacity and force inefficient routings. The route structure does not currently make use of the advanced navigation capability of modern airline fleets. In addition, civil and military airspace sharing agreements are needed to better balance airspace distribution. Adding urgency to the situation is the fact that MID States plan to spend around US$ 200 billions on new aircraft in the next 15 years and US$100 billions in infrastructure to meet demand. 4.10 The meeting recognized the need for rationalization of the ATS Route Network in the MID Region based on the Flexible Use of Airspace (FUA) and Performance Based Navigation (PBN) concepts. In this respect, the meeting recalled that MIDANPIRG/10 in April 2007 recognized that a radical review of the MID ATS route network had to be carried out based on the definition of city-pairs routes. Furthermore, MIDANPIRG/10 was of view that this work has to be carried out using automated tools, as necessary. However, it was further recognized that this would be an elaborate task which could not be achieved within the framework of the ATM/SAR/AIS Sub Group. Accordingly, the ATS Route Network Task Force (ARN TF) was established in December 2007 to, inter-alia: a) review the MID ATS route network in order to assess its capacity and constraints; b) based on the airspace user needs and in coordination with stakeholders (States, International Organizations, user representative organizations and other ICAO Regions), identify requirements and improvements for achieving and maintaining an efficient route network in the MID Region; and c) propose a strategy and prioritized plan for development of improvements to the route network, highlighting:
4-3 areas that require immediate attention interface issues with adjacent ICAO Regions 4.11 The meeting noted that since its establishment, the ARN Task Force has convened three (3) meetings. However, the objective set forth by MIDANPIRG/10, has not yet been fully achieved. 4.12 In connection with the above, the meeting was apprised of CANSO s study aiming to undertake a Middle East Regional Airspace Review (MIDRAR) in coordination with and with the support of ICAO and Member States of the Middle East Region, in accordance with the UAE Declaration signed during the CANSO High Level Meeting in Abu Dhabi on 17 January 2011. It was highlighted that the scope of MIDRAR will include the researching, planning, developing and implementing measurable airspace capacity enhancements. The meeting further noted that MIDRAR will identify Quick-Wins as well as long-term aspirations for improved operating efficiencies within the homogenous ATM area of the MID Region. 4.13 The meeting noted that MIDRAR builds on the valuable work already undertaken by ICAO and ANSPs by taking a collaborative regional approach to measuring performance, identifying areas for improvement, and developing solutions to address the Middle East s capacity challenges. It was highlighted that MIDRAR, inter-alia, would address civil/military airspace sharing through Flexible Use of Airspace (FUA). The meeting noted that the CANSO plan for completion of MIDRAR is January 2012, with further work to follow. 4.14 The meeting agreed with AACO that the success of any study would be dependent on the following three (3) principles: - to build on the work already achieved; - to coordinate with all concerned parties/stakeholders; and - to agree on and meet specified timelines. 4.15 The meeting also underlined that the improvement of the ATS Route Network in the MID Region should follow a step-by-step approach, focusing first on the identified bottle necks and most urgent airspace users requirements. The need for inter-regional coordination to link the MID ATS Route Network with those of adjacent Regions was also highlighted. 4.16 It was highlighted that the concepts and studies do not represent the final goal and that emphasis should be put on implementation by the elimination of all constraints. In this respect, the involvement of and cooperation with the Militaries was underlined. 4.17 The meeting re-iterated that the formal approval of the amendments to the ATS Route Network is the responsibility of ICAO and accordingly, the procedure for amendment of the Basic Air Navigation Plan, as approved by the ICAO Council, should be respected. 4.18 Based on the above, the meeting showed general support to the CANSO UAE Declaration related to MIDRAR. Nevertheless, UAE informed the meeting that they have not yet committed to this Declaration and they are still studying all its aspects. UAE further mentioned that once a decision is taken in this regard, they will inform both CANSO and ICAO. 4.19 Accordingly, the meeting agreed to the following Conclusion:
4-4 DGCA-MID/1 CONCLUSION 1/3 - MIDDLE EAST REGIONAL AIRSPACE REVIEW (MIDRAR) That, a) States committed to the CANSO UAE Declaration are encouraged to: i. support CANSO efforts to carry out a Middle East Regional Airspace Review (MIDRAR), in close coordination with ICAO and all concerned parties/stakeholders; ii. iii. support the creation of the MIDRAR Team; and provide necessary information, data and other resources, including Specialist input, as required. b) CANSO or one of its Members present the outcome of the MIDRAR to the appropriate MIDANPIRG subsidiary bodies (ARN TF and ATM/SAR/AIS SG) to initiate necessary amendments to the Air Navigation Plan(s), as appropriate. Implementation of the ICAO New FPL Format (DGCA-MID/1-WP/9) 4.20 The subject was addressed in the DGCA-MID/1 WP/9 presented by the Secretariat. In addition, the DGCA-MID/1 IP/4 was associated with this topic. 4.21 The meeting noted that, due to the complexity of implementing the ICAO New FPL format and the time constraint of its applicability date, a Study Group (INFPL SG) was established by MIDANPIRG/11 to develop the technical guidance material and coordinate transition plans with common strategies and mitigation measures. It was highlighted that the INFPL SG is monitoring the status of implementation in each MID State, including the details on the appointment of focal points, the budget allocation and milestone and the implementation date. The meeting further noted that 74% of MID States are in the evaluation or analysis of the current system phase. IATA supported the efforts of ICAO and is encouraging all its member airlines to participate with their ANSPs in early trials using the new format to ensure trouble free and successful change over to the new format. 4.22 The meeting noted that the ICAO MID Regional Office is organizing a Seminar in July 2011, in order to assist States in the preparation for the implementation of the ICAO New Flight Plan format. 4.23 Based on the above, the meeting agreed to the following Conclusion: DGCA-MID/1 CONCLUSION 1/4 - IMPLEMENTATION OF THE ICAO NEW FPL FORMAT That, considering the importance of timely implementation of the ICAO new Flight Plan Format, MID States are urged to provide necessary resources and support to expedite implementation of the ICAO New Flight Plan Format.
4-5 Regional/Sub-Regional AIS Database (DGCA-MID/1-WP/10) 4.24 The subject was addressed in the DGCA-MID/1 WP/10 presented by the Secretariat. The meeting recognized the importance of AIS automation as an important pre-requisite for the transition from AIS to AIM. In this respect, it was highlighted that the capability to provide and exchange quality assured digital aeronautical data, will provide the basis for the transition to AIM, and thus allow for the establishment of new services that directly support current and future ATM service requirements. 4.25 Based on the experience of adjacent Regions and taking into consideration the limitations and drawbacks related to the current operational structure and provision of AIS/AIM services in the MID Region, and the benefits offered, in particular, by the European AIS Database (EAD), the meeting agreed that a study/business case be carried out in the MID Region pertaining to the establishment of a MID Region AIS Database (MIDAD). In this respect, the meeting noted with appreciation that Jordan and Bahrain volunteered to take the lead in carrying out the study with the support of appropriate Consultant and in close coordination with ICAO. Accordingly, the meeting agreed to the following Conclusion: DGCA-MID/1 CONCLUSION 1/5 - MID REGION AIS DATABASE (MIDAD) That, Certification of ANSPs (DGCA-MID/1-WP/11) a) Jordan and Bahrain take the lead in carrying out a study/business case pertaining to the establishment of a MID Region AIS Database (MIDAD), in close coordination with ICAO; b) States provide all necessary information and support for the achievement of the study; and c) Jordan and Bahrain present the outcome of the study to the appropriate MIDANPIRG subsidiary bodies (AIS/MAP TF and ATM/SAR/AIS SG). 4.26 The subject was addressed in the DGCA-MID/1 WP/11 presented by UAE. The meeting was apprised of the activities carried out by UAE for the Certification of the Air Navigation Service Providers (ANSPs). In this respect, it was highlighted that the development of National Civil Aviation Legislation and Regulations mandates and enables the ANSP Certification process. 4.27 The meeting recognized that a comprehensive ANSP Certification process allows for: a) improvement of the State s ability to comply with ICAO SARPs; b) improvement of ANSP compliance with National Regulations and insurance that the ANSP quality and safety performance targets are maintained and enhanced; c) a more structured basis of the State s oversight process of ANSPs, resulting in standardized oversight activities.
4-6 d) better management of the Organizations responsible for the ANS service provision; and e) Regulation compliance enforcement aspects to be achieved more effectively. 4.28 The meeting noted that, although the Certification of ANSPs is not mandated by ICAO, UAE developed Regulations related to Certification of ANSPs providing safety critical services to aviation. The need for harmonization of ANS Regulations in the MID Region was highlighted. 4.29 In connection with the above, the meeting invited MID States to work together with ICAO, within the framework of MIDANPIRG for the development of a MID Region Strategy for the certification of ANSPs, taking into consideration UAE experience. Contingency Plans in the MID Region (DGCA-MID/1-WP/28) 4.30 The subject was addressed in the DGCA-MID/1 WP/28 presented by the Secretariat. The meeting recalled the ICAO Annex 11 provisions related to the development and promulgation of contingency plans. In this respect, the meeting noted that, despite, the importance given by MIDANPIRG and its subsidiary bodies to the subject, the development and promulgation of contingency plans remains one of the long standing deficiencies in the MID Region, which is recorded against all MID States. In this respect, it was highlighted that one of the challenges contributing to the low pace in implementation of contingency plans was the process of consultation and agreements with adjacent FIRs/States. 4.31 It was also highlighted that the effectiveness of the bilateral/multi-lateral agreements should be evaluated through the conduct of simulations. 4.32 Taking into consideration the current events in the MID Region and for the interest of ensuring safety and continuity of civil aviation, the meeting recognized that it s becoming more imperative and pressing that all MID States take necessary measures to sign the pending agreements with adjacent FIRs/States and expedite the promulgation of their contingency plans. Accordingly, the meeting agreed to the following Conclusion: DGCA-MID/1 CONCLUSION 1/6 CONTINGENCY PLANS That, for the interest of ensuring safety and continuity of civil aviation, MID States: a) accord high priority and secure necessary resources to update, complete and promulgate their contingency plans; and b) send copies of their contingency plans (even those which are still in draft format) to the ICAO MID Regional Office as soon as possible.
5-1 REPORT ON AGENDA ITEM 5 AVIATION SAFETY Middle East Region Safety Brief (DGCA-MID/1-PPT/2) 5.1 The subject was addressed in the DGCA-MID/1 PPT/2 provided by the Secretariat. The meeting received with interest and appreciation the safety brief highlighting ICAO s activities related to the analysis of MID Region safety data, in particular the use of USOAP results as a potential safety indicator and associated safety improvement strategies. Establishment of RASG-MID (DGCA-MID/1-WP/12) 5.2 The subject was addressed in the DGCA-MID/1 WP/12 presented by the Secretariat. The meeting was presented with the proposed concept, structure and the Terms of Reference (TOR) of the Regional Aviation Safety Group for the MID Region (RASG-MID). The establishment of RASGs was based on the ICAO Council Decision 190/4 dated 25 May 2010. The RASG-MID will serve as a Regional cooperative forum integrating global, national and industry efforts and will facilitate the implementation of the Global Aviation Safety Plan (GASP) and the associated Global Aviation Safety Roadmap (GASR) within the MID Region. While recognizing the commonality of intents of the Top Level Safety Team (TLST) programme with that of RASG-MID, the meeting was of view to support both activities at least for the short and medium terms. Review of the proposed revisions to the GASP (DGCA-MID/1-WP/14) 5.3 The subject was addressed in the DGCA-MID/1 WP/14 presented by the Secretariat, which provided a summary of the proposed revisions to the Global Aviation Safety Plan (GASP) developed back in 1997. The GASP, was originally intended, and initially served, as a high-level policy document in guiding the efforts of the States, industry and international organizations. In view of the latest developments related to implementation of the State Safety Programme (SSP) and Safety Management Systems (SMS), as well as the associated Standards and Recommended Practices (SARPs), it has become necessary to update the GASP to better reflect the introduction and use of safety management principles. The expected date for completion of the revision is set to December 2011. 5.4 Acknowledging the need for inclusion of SSP & SMS principles in GASP, the meeting encouraged MID States and concerned Regional Organizations to follow-up the work related to updating the GASP. Enhancement of the Middle East Aviation Safety Roadmap (DGCA-MID/1-WP/13) 5.5 The subject was addressed in the DGCA-MID/1 WP/13 presented by UAE. It summarized the progress made and the activities of the TLST following the declaration of the Middle East Aviation Safety Summit, which was held in Abu Dhabi, January 2008.The meeting noted that the TLST has produced a MID Regional Roadmap Assessment Plan with Recommended/Prioritized Actions, and has identified Safety Risk mitigation factors. Presently it is in the process to launch an educational
5-2 awareness campaign. The meeting noted that the UAE GCAA was the main source of funding the activities of TLST. The meeting encouraged MID States that have not yet signed the Abu Dhabi Resolution on the Global Aviation Safety Roadmap, to do so as soon as possible. 5.6 Based on the above, the meeting agreed to the following Conclusion: DGCA-MID/1 CONCLUSION 1/7 - SUPPORTING THE TOP LEVEL SAFETY TEAM (TLST) That, recognizing the important role of TLST, in implementing the recommendations of the Global Aviation Safety Roadmap (GASR), MID States are encouraged to commit resources to the work of the TLST. Regional Strategy for collection of safety data (DGCA-MID/1-WP/22) 5.7 The subject was addressed in the DGCA-MID/1 WP/22 presented by the Secretariat, which proposed a regional strategy for using ADREP compatible systems such as European Coordination Centre for Aviation Incident Reporting Systems (ECCAIRS) to capture data for Safety Management Systems (SMSs) and State Safety Programmes (SSPs). It was highlighted that the collection of safety data is critical to the implementation of SSP and SMS in aviation. It is emphasized that the collection of data should be implemented by MID States in a manner compatible with the ADREP taxonomy as developed by ICAO. The meeting noted that the ECCAIRS software, which is developed by the European Commission (EC) and made available to all ICAO Member States for free, is the only safety data application that currently implements the ADREP taxonomy. 5.8 Based on the above, the meeting agreed to the following Conclusion: DGCA-MID/1 CONCLUSION 1/8 - REGIONAL STRATEGY FOR COLLECTION OF SAFETY DATA That, recognizing the importance of safety data for SMS and SSP programmes, MID States to implement ECCAIRS for collecting safety data; and attend ECCAIRS training courses organized by the ICAO MID Regional Office. Enhancement of Aerodrome Operations Safety in the MID Region (DGCA-MID/1-WP/20) 5.9 The subject was addressed in the DGCA-MID/1 WP/20 presented by the Secretariat. The meeting re-iterated the ICAO Assembly Resolutions, the High Level Safety Conference 2010 (HLSC/2010) and MIDANPIRG/12 Conclusions related to aerodrome operations safety. In particular, the meeting urged States to take measures to establish and implement a profile of appropriate prevention measures and risk reduction strategies in relation to runway safety, as part of the runway safety programme; and to monitor runway safety events and related precursors as part of the safety data collection and processing system established under the State Safety Programme. In this regard, the meeting was informed that ICAO is organizing a Global Runway Safety Symposium in Montreal, 24-26 May 2011. It was further highlighted that a Runway Safety Workshop is tentatively scheduled for the MID Region in November 2011.
5-3 Establishment of MID Regional Safety Oversight Organizations (RSOOs) (DGCA-MID/1-WP/16) 5.10 The subject was addressed in the DGCA-MID/1 WP/16 presented by the Secretariat. The meeting was apprised of the outcome of MIDANPIRG/12 related to the advantages of the establishment of MID Regional Safety Oversight Organizations (RSOOs). In this respect, the meeting noted that safety oversight audits and audit follow-ups conducted by ICAO indicated that a number of States have not been able to implement an effective safety oversight system over their aviation activities due to the lack of adequate resources, specifically in terms of qualified technical expertise. This has led ICAO to conclude that regional or sub-regional safety oversight organizations may be required to overcome this problem through shared objectives, strategies, and activities and, most importantly, that they would enable States to pool resources and thus be able to attract, recruit, and retain appropriately qualified and experienced personnel in the aviation fields. 5.11 The meeting recalled that MIDANPIRG/12 agreed that the participation of a reasonable number of States is required to ensure that the establishment of a RSOO is both realistic and feasible. Accordingly, through Conclusion 12/80 ESTABLISHMENT OF MID REGIONAL SAFETY OVERSIGHT ORGANIZATIONS (RSOOS), MIDANPIRG/12 agreed that States be requested to inform the ICAO MID Regional Office about their views/intentions for the establishment of MID RSOOs, prior to 31 March 2011. 5.12 The meeting was further informed that the new ICAO Manual on Regional Accident and Incident Investigation Organization (Doc 9946, First Edition-2011) has been recently posted by ICAO on the ICAO NET website (http://icao.int/icaonet/). 5.13 The meeting noted that in many of the ICAO Regions, Regional Safety Oversight Organizations (RSOOs) and Regional Accident and Incident Investigation Organizations (RAIOs) have been considered as the most viable way of meeting the States safety oversight obligations in an effective and sustainable manner; and accordingly a number of such Organizations have been already established. 5.14 The meeting noted that ICAO, through its Technical Cooperation Programme (TCP), has formulated intra-state (Regional/Sub-Regional) projects, known as the Cooperative Development of Operational Safety and Continuing Airworthiness Projects (COSCAPs). It was highlighted that COSCAPs represent the first step towards establishment of RSOOs. In this respect, the meeting agreed on the need to assess the effectiveness of the COSCAP-GS (Gulf States) through the review and evaluation of its achievements during the past five (5) years and its plan/work programme for the coming five (5) years. 5.15 Based on the above, the meeting recognized that RSOOs and RAIOs represent a viable way of meeting the States safety oversight obligations in an effective and sustainable manner. However, it was highlighted that prior to the establishment of any RSOO, States willing to participate in this regional/sub-regional project should formulate a strategy that is well-defined in terms of purpose, scope, activities, objectives, duration and the expected results or outcomes. In this respect, the meeting requested ICAO to organize a Workshop on the subject, in order to address the technical, institutional and financial aspects related to the establishment of RSOOs and RAIOs and developed appropriate recommendations and a regional strategy based on identified common priorities and programmes, to enhance States safety oversight capabilities and solve common safety-related deficiencies.
5-4 5.16 The meeting further noted that, based on the results related to the effectiveness of the COSCAP-GS mentioned above, one of the options which could be considered is to evolve the COSCAP- GS into a RSOO. In addition, it was further noted that ICAO Technical Cooperation Bureau (TCB) can play a significant role in this endeavour. 5.17 Considering all of the foregoing, the meeting agreed to the following Conclusions: DGCA-MID/1 CONCLUSION 1/9 - ESTABLISHMENT OF RSOOs AND RAIOs IN THE MID REGION That, in order to strengthen their safety oversight capabilities and solve common safety-related deficiencies, in an effective, cooperative and sustainable manner, MID States: a) cooperate towards the establishment of Regional Safety Oversight Organizations (RSOOs) and Regional Accident and Incident Investigation Organizations (RAIOs); and b) further address the subject within the framework of RASG-MID. SMS Implementation (DGCA-MID/1-WP/15) DGCA-MID/1 CONCLUSION 1/10 - WORKSHOP ON REGIONAL SAFETY OVERSIGHT PROGRAMMES That, as part of the Regional preparations for the establishment of Regional Safety Oversight Organizations (RSOOs) and Regional Accident and Incident Investigation Organizations (RAIOs), the ICAO MID Regional Office organize a Workshop on Regional Safety Oversight Programmes, in order to address the technical, institutional and financial aspects related to these regional/subregional projects. 5.18 The subject was addressed in the DGCA-MID/1 WP/15 presented by UAE. The meeting was apprised of UAE experience in the implementation of Safety Management System (SMS). It was highlighted that the maturity of the SMS and the State Safety Programme (SSP) could not be achieved without a continuous collaborative efforts and partnership between the Regulators and Service Providers. 5.19 Accordingly, the meeting urged States to embark on the SSP implementation programmes sooner than later to avoid the gap widening between the SMS and the way civil aviation authorities conduct their business. Based on UAE experience, the meeting encouraged States to show a level of flexibility with the industry when dealing with this new concept. It was finally underlined that internal staff training on SSP/SMS related topics is of a paramount importance, and the whole SSP/SMS goals cannot be achieved without investing in staff training.
5-5 SAFA Program Implementation in U.A.E (DGCA-MID/1-WP/17) 5.20 The subject was addressed in the DGCA-MID/1 WP/17 presented by UAE. In this paper UAE presented its experience in regards to its national SAFA Program which was established in the last quarter of 2009 to ensure compliance of the foreign operators with ICAO SARPS which in turn will increase the overall safety level of foreign operators. Egypt advised the meeting that to gain the maximum benefits of the programme, States should cooperate and coordinate their activities. Furthermore, Egypt suggested to the meeting to consider other safety programmes to cover the ground handling and flight inspection. In this respect, the meeting encouraged MID States to cooperate on matters of common interest in the field of aviation safety for mutual benefits. EASA PART M Implementation (DGCA-MID/1-WP/18) 5.21 The subject was addressed in the DGCA-MID/1 WP/18 presented by UAE. This paper discusses the lessons learned and difficulties encountered during the planning process to adapt EASA PART M. UAE GCAA, in its attempt to harmonize its regulations with EASA regulations, initiated a plan in mid 2008 to adopt EASA PART M. However this plan was put on hold to allow sufficient time to conduct detailed impact on Operations regulations pertaining to allowing Commercial Air Transport Operators to contract Continuing Airworthiness Maintenance Organizations (CAMOs) and conduct a detailed economic impact assessment to avoid unjustifiable financial burden on operators of small airplanes and balloons that will be impacted by the advent of the Civil Aviation Regulation CAR M. The meeting noted that UAE has developed an action plan and introduced a new Section in its Aviation safety Affairs Department responsible for developing the regulations. Further Bahrain requested UAE to provide details about the difficulties encountered during the implementation of EASA Part M. In reference to the above, the meeting noted that COSCAP-GS is organizing a workshop in June 2011, in UAE, on improvement of safety standards and introduction of best practices based on European and other International Organizations standards. The meeting encouraged MID States to participate actively in the workshop. 5.22 Based on the above, the meeting strongly recommended that MID States that are planning to adopt EASA Part M, to conduct thorough regulatory and economic impact assessment before making a decision on this matter. U.S. Sanctions and their indirect effect on Aviation Safety (DGCA-MID/1-WP/19) 5.23 The subject was addressed in the DGCA-MID/1 WP/19 presented by Sudan. This paper highlighted that aviation safety has been compromised due to U.S. embargoes. It was noted with concern that new aircraft cannot be purchased from the U.S. or any aircraft that contains U.S. parts. In addition, the shipment of imports is prohibited and consequently, essential spare parts are not made available to the aviation industry in the banned States. A number of Manufacturers and Aviation Companies are also not allowed to provide services because of the sanctions. 5.24 Sudan further highlighted that, to their understanding, the embargoes apply only on military equipments and support services.