By Mohamed Attia
The Minister of Civil Aviation Dr Sameh El-Hefny recently attended the 12th meeting of the Extended Executive Committee of the Latin American Civil Aviation Commission (LACAC) in Guatemala City.
The event, held in coordination with the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO), focused on strengthening co-operation and promoting safety, efficiency, and sustainability within the air transport industry.

During the meetings, El-Hefny highlighted LACAC’s crucial role in aligning regional initiatives with international standards, which enhances air transport security and efficiency on both regional and global levels.
He praised the commission’s dedication to these principles and emphasised Egypt’s commitment to adhering to the highest international civil aviation standards.
El-Hefny also pointed out that the Ministry of Civil Aviation made a strategic decision to keep Egyptian airspace open during recent exceptional times when some neighbouring countries closed theirs.
He stated that this action demonstrates Egypt’s dedication to maintaining uninterrupted air traffic and reflects its leadership in confronting challenges.

The minister concluded that this policy reinforces principles of safety, security, and international co-operation, ultimately strengthening Egypt’s standing in the global civil aviation system.
The meeting’s opening session featured remarks from Ingrid Azucena Zelaya Florian, Chair of LACAC, and José Fernando Soria Nobueso, Deputy Minister of Transport of Guatemala. LACAC, comprising 22 member countries, plays a key role in addressing technical, legal, and political issues affecting the aviation industry in Latin America and the Caribbean.
