Muscat – Oman has been ranked fifth globally and second in both the GCC and Middle East region in aviation safety, according to an assessment by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO).

This was announced during a press conference organised by Civil Aviation Authority (CAA), following Oman’s participation in ICAO’s Universal Safety Oversight Audit Programme.

Oman raised its effective implementation compliance index for aviation safety oversight elements from 60.47% to 95.95%, surpassing 127 countries and securing the fifth position globally.

CAA credited this achievement to concerted national efforts, resulting in Oman advancing to first place globally in civil aviation legislation and government regulation. This progress was facilitated by the launch of the Irtiqaa Programme in 2022, strategically enhancing the sultanate’s safety oversight system in aviation.

Capt Majid bin Saif al Barhi, Director General of Maritime Affairs in the Ministry of Transport, Communications and Information Technology, highlighted the government’s unwavering support across sectors and emphasised the significance of transportation safety in fostering economic growth and attracting investments.

He underscored the role of the Transport Safety Office as a competent investigative authority for aviation and maritime incidents, attributing Oman’s success to modernising civil aviation and maritime laws, adhering to international standards, and fostering collaborations with relevant institutions.

According to Capt Barhi, the ministry’s commitment to air traffic safety is exemplified by the recent international conference it hosted aimed at supporting victims of aviation accidents.

This commitment reflects the sultanate’s dedication to upholding international air safety standards and principles, ensuring a safe and prosperous aviation sector aligned with Oman Vision 2040.