By Mohamed Attia
Egypt’s Civil Aviation Authority, led by Sameh El-Hefny, participated in the 2024 Aviation Security Week organised by the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) in Oman. The event brought together over 600 officials, experts, and industry leaders from ICAO member states, international organisations, and civil aviation authorities, as well as ministers of transport and aviation heads.
During the conference, El-Hefny highlighted the importance of addressing critical issues affecting global aviation security and emphasised the need to adhere to international safety regulations outlined in the 1944 Chicago Convention on Civil Aviation. He stated that enhancing safety and security measures, in line with international standards, is essential for the sustainability of the aviation industry and ensuring safe and efficient air travel for passengers.
The sessions focused on global aviation priorities, coinciding with preparations for ICAO’s 42nd General Assembly in September 2025. El-Hefny underlined the significance of collaboration, policy coordination, and the exchange of best practices to address challenges such as cyber threats, which are growing rapidly alongside increased reliance on digital systems in aviation.
El-Hefny discussed the adoption of the second edition of ICAO’s Global Aviation Security Plan (GASeP), set for 2024, which serves as a roadmap to enhance security standards. Key components of the plan include threat and risk assessments, security awareness programmes for aviation staff, and compliance with standardized procedures.
Recognising the pivotal role of human resources, El-Hefny stressed the need to enhance the skills and training of aviation professionals to meet international requirements and promote sustainable development in the sector. He referenced milestones such as the 2016 Riyadh Declaration and the 2017 Africa Regional Security Plan adopted in Sharm El-Sheikh, which reinforce international cooperation to tackle aviation security challenges.
On the sidelines of the event, El-Hefny held bilateral meetings with Naif Al-Abri, Chairman of Oman’s Civil Aviation Authority, and Abdulaziz Al-Duailej, President of Saudi Arabia’s General Authority of Civil Aviation. The discussions focused on enhancing regional collaboration, sharing expertise, and improving aviation safety and security in the Middle East. The parties also explored investment opportunities in the aviation sector to serve the interests of Arab nations.
The Egyptian delegation toured the accompanying exhibition, which showcased cutting-edge aviation security technologies and solutions. Participants explored topics such as cybersecurity, the balance between security and sustainability, and the integration of women and youth in the aviation sector.
The event featured youth-focused sessions that emphasised the role of young professionals and women in advancing aviation security. Participants shared success stories and discussed innovative approaches to address emerging security threats, including critical infrastructure protection, unmanned aircraft systems, and cyber resilience.
ICAO’s Aviation Security Week concluded with practical recommendations for safeguarding the future of global aviation in an era of complex and evolving challenges.
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