First-of-kind training agreement partners ICAO with Emirates

As the global air transport sector recovers from the effects of the pandemic, a novel agreement between ICAO Global Aviation Training (GAT) and Emirates will see both organizations work closely to develop and deliver training programmes, supporting aviation capacity-building and human resource development worldwide.

The agreement, the first of its kind with an airline, sees Emirates joining ICAO’s TRAINAIR PLUS programme as a Corporate Partner. The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed on 4 October 2021 by ICAO Secretary General Juan Carlos Salazar and His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman and Chief Executive Emirates Airline & Group.

The first joint collaboration under this MoU will be the delivery of a Ground Handling Diploma programme. This programme will  encompass operations and management, contemporary aviation issues, safeguarding the aviation industry, aviation logistics and passenger handling services, and will be under the administration of Emirates Group Security.

“As aviation continues on its course to global recovery, it is through education that we can assure a skilled and sustainable aviation workforce capable of adapting to and meeting the challenges of a rapidly evolving industry,” remarked Secretary General Salazar. “This novel agreement between ICAO Global Aviation Training and Emirates is an excellent example of the innovative approaches to capacity building that ICAO is exploring and implementing in partnership with operators.”

HH Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum indicated “Emirates Group Security is committed to providing educational programmes that meet the highest international standards. The new partnership between ICAO and Emirates Group Security will provide a platform for Diploma programmes to be benchmarked against internationally recognised frameworks, helping strengthen capabilities within the UAE’s aviation industry.”

This initiative is delivered under the umbrella of the ICAO TRAINAIR PLUS Programme (TPP), which has been undertaking activities in the UAE through collaboration with three TPP Members: Global Air Navigation Services LLC (GANS), Gulf Center for Aviation Studies (GCAS), and International Aviation Consulting & Training (IACT).