The UAE’s General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA), in collaboration with the Ministry of Defence, signed an agreement on February 12 to launch the fourth phase of the nation’s Airspace Restructuring Project. The initiative is designed to enhance capacity and optimise efficiency across the country’s airspace.
This stage will prioritise the modernisation of air traffic management systems, expand air route capacity, and strengthen coordination among various airspace stakeholders. It also aligns with the anticipated expansion plans of national airports and carriers.
The memorandum of understanding was signed by GCAA Director-General Saif Mohammed Al Suwaidi and representatives from the civil aviation authorities and the Ministry of Defence. The agreement outlines the project’s financial, legal, and technical governance structure.
Al Suwaidi stated that the fourth phase marks a significant milestone in preparing the UAE for the future of aviation. He emphasised its role in accommodating projected growth in air navigation traffic while establishing a flexible, seamless, and future-ready airspace infrastructure that upholds the highest standards of safety and operational efficiency.
Ahmed Al Jallaf, Assistant Director-General – Air Navigation Services at GCAA, noted that the project builds on the achievements of the previous three phases. He added that the authority, together with its strategic partners, remains committed to advancing an integrated national airspace management system.
He further highlighted that the initiative will strengthen integration across all air operations in line with national and international air navigation plans, reinforcing the UAE’s standing as a global aviation hub.
The latest phase, he concluded, will ensure the UAE is well positioned to manage rising air traffic demand while maintaining robust safety and operational benchmarks.
