Latest news with #UAEGeneralCivilAviationAuthority
Arabian Post
06-07-2025
- Business
- Arabian Post
UAE Unveils First Global Framework for Hybrid Air Operations
A landmark regulation issued by the UAE General Civil Aviation Authority introduces the world's first official framework enabling electric Vertical Take-Off and Landing aircraft and conventional helicopters to operate interchangeably using the same infrastructure. This innovation positions the nation at the forefront of the global Advanced Air Mobility revolution, merging cutting-edge technology with established aviation systems. At the heart of this framework lies the decision to permit eVTOLs, commonly known as flying taxis, to utilise existing helipads across the UAE's urban clusters. More than 70 such landing sites now fall under the new regulation, dramatically reducing the need for fresh infrastructure and greatly accelerating deployment timelines. The unified use of helipads also promises lower capital expenditure and simpler implementation for operators seeking entry into the nascent aerial market. GCAA Director‑General Saif Mohammed Al Suwaidi explained that the framework not only accommodates emerging technologies but 'redefines how aviation evolves,' reinforcing the UAE's commitment to innovation and ecosystem readiness. His remarks underscore a broader government directive aimed at embedding agile, efficient, and non-bureaucratic solutions across strategic industries. ADVERTISEMENT The framework's architecture builds on CAR AGA PART VFI, a comprehensive regulatory tool establishing unified design and operational standards for vertiports, heliports, and helidecks. It includes protocols for eVTOL charging infrastructure, visual navigational systems, and emergency response measures such as rescue and fire‑fighting capabilities. Critical roles in operations—ranging from flight‑line officers to fire response teams—have also been codified with clear competency benchmarks and accountability pathways. The GCAA's hybrid regulation emerges from collaborative efforts with global AAM stakeholders, aimed at aligning with the UAE's long‑term strategy for a sustainable, intelligent transport network. Aqeel Al Zarouni, Assistant Director‑General for Aviation Safety Affairs, emphasised that the regulation enhances regulatory flexibility without compromising safety standards—a principle central to the authority's mandate. This policy shift dovetails with technological advances already underway in major emirates. Abu Dhabi recently conducted a test flight of an autonomous eVTOL taxi from the Cruise Terminal helipad, flying over the city marina—an example of utilisation within the shared‑infrastructure model. Dubai followed with its first Joby Aviation eVTOL flight at the Jetman test facility near Margham, as part of preparations for a commercial launch slated for early 2026. Joby's aircraft, which seats five and reaches cruising speeds of up to 200 mph with a range of approximately 150 miles, has received a six‑year exclusive operating pact from Dubai's Roads and Transport Authority. This pact includes use of multiple vertiports—such as Dubai International Airport and Palm Jumeirah—and forms part of wider FAA certification steps in the United States. Dubai RTA Director‑General Mattar Al Tayer highlighted the potential benefits to city travel, pointing out that routes like Dubai International Airport to Palm Jumeirah could be slashed to a 12‑minute journey versus 45 minutes by road. The shared helipad concept under the new framework leverages this advantage, enabling swift service roll‑out via existing infrastructure. Challenges remain, particularly concerning integration with current air traffic management systems, nocturnal flight regulations, noise standards, and the electrification of landing facilities. The GCAA's PART VFI addresses these by establishing emergency planning protocols, licensing pathways for Primary Accountable Organisations to manage landing zones, and registering infrastructure compliance. Global authorities, including the FAA and EASA, are expected to monitor the UAE's deployment closely, as the country acts as a de facto proving ground for AAM. If successful, the UAE model could serve as a template for urban air mobility frameworks worldwide—bridging the gap between innovation and practical implementation. Momentum within the UAE's AAM sector is evident: multiple eVTOL developers, including Archer Aviation and EHang, are entering the market. Their strategies focus on retrofitting existing helipads with charging and support systems tailored to eVTOLs. Archer's CCO, Nikhil Goel, highlighted the cost-effectiveness of this approach, noting that ramping up with current helipad assets demands 'minimal capital'.
Hi Dubai
03-06-2025
- Business
- Hi Dubai
Emirates to Resume Flights to Damascus from July 16
Emirates will resume flights to Damascus from 16 July 2025, marking a major step in re-establishing air links between the UAE and Syria after more than a decade-long suspension. The airline halted operations to the Syrian capital in 2012, and its return follows a detailed review in coordination with the UAE General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA). The relaunch begins with three weekly flights—on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Sundays—and will gradually expand to daily service by 26 October. 'We are pleased to restart operations to Damascus and support Syria's road ahead by providing better connectivity and opening new trade lanes,' said H.H. Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman and Chief Executive of Emirates Airline and Group. He highlighted the role of the flights in supporting the Syrian diaspora, enhancing economic ties, and aiding the country's development. Emirates will operate the route using a Boeing 777-200LR, offering 302 seats. The service is expected to boost access to the airline's global network of nearly 150 destinations and support efforts to attract foreign investment across Syria's energy, construction, and agriculture sectors. The airline's codeshare agreement with flydubai will also enhance travel options for passengers to and from Damascus. Emirates first launched services to Syria in 1988 and carried over 2.1 million passengers before suspending flights in 2012. The restart underscores growing regional engagement with Syria and the UAE's commitment to strengthening bilateral ties. News Source: Emirates News Agency
ARN News Center
02-06-2025
- Business
- ARN News Center
Emirates to resume Damascus flights
Emirates Airline will restart operations to Syria's capital city of Damascus from July 16 with three flights a week and daily services to take off from October 26. It will initially start with services on Monday, Wednesday and Sunday, with departures from Dubai planned at 1200 and return from Damascus at 1630 on board a 302-seater Boeing 777-200LR. The airline said it plans to expand the services to four times a week from August 2, with an additional flight on Saturday, and daily operations to begin from October 26. The move follows the UAE General Civil Aviation Authority's decision earlier this year to restart air travel between the UAE and Syria, and comes a day after flydubai resumed direct flights to Damascus. 'Emirates is pleased to restart operations to Damascus and support Syria's road ahead by providing better choice and connectivity, essential economic links for inwards investment as well as opening new trade lanes and global market access for the country," said Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman and Chief Executive, Emirates Airline and Group. The Boeing 777-200LR aircraft will feature 38 Business Class seats alongside 264 seats in Economy Class. Emirates commenced services to Damascus in 1988, and prior to suspending operations in 2012 the airline carried over 2.1 million passengers in and out of Syria.
Dubai Eye
02-06-2025
- Business
- Dubai Eye
Emirates to resume Damascus flights
Emirates Airline will restart operations to Syria's capital city of Damascus from July 16 with three flights a week and daily services to take off from October 26. It will initially start with services on Monday, Wednesday and Sunday, with departures from Dubai planned at 1200 and return from Damascus at 1630 on board a 302-seater Boeing 777-200LR. The airline said it plans to expand the services to four times a week from August 2, with an additional flight on Saturday, and daily operations to begin from October 26. The move follows the UAE General Civil Aviation Authority's decision earlier this year to restart air travel between the UAE and Syria, and comes a day after flydubai resumed direct flights to Damascus. 'Emirates is pleased to restart operations to Damascus and support Syria's road ahead by providing better choice and connectivity, essential economic links for inwards investment as well as opening new trade lanes and global market access for the country," said Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman and Chief Executive, Emirates Airline and Group. The Boeing 777-200LR aircraft will feature 38 Business Class seats alongside 264 seats in Economy Class. Emirates commenced services to Damascus in 1988, and prior to suspending operations in 2012 the airline carried over 2.1 million passengers in and out of Syria.
See - Sada Elbalad
02-06-2025
- Business
- See - Sada Elbalad
UAE to Resume Flights to Damascus Starting July 16
Israa Farhan The United Arab Emirates has officially announced the resumption of its scheduled flights to Damascus, Syria, beginning July 16, 2025, marking a significant return to the Syrian capital after more than a decade of suspension. The UAE-based airline suspended its operations to Damascus in 2012 due to the escalating conflict in Syria. However, following a comprehensive assessment coordinated with the UAE General Civil Aviation Authority, the UAE has now confirmed the phased restoration of its Damascus route. In the initial phase, the UAE will operate three weekly flights—on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Sundays. Starting August 2, the schedule will expand to four flights per week with the addition of a Saturday service. The airline plans to further increase frequency to daily flights from October 26, 2025. The UAE first launched its Damascus service in 1988 and had transported over 2.1 million passengers to and from Syria before suspending operations in 2012. The return of these flights is expected to enhance regional connectivity and support the gradual reintegration of Syria into broader commercial aviation networks. Syrian airports had largely halted operations following the collapse of national infrastructure during the country's prolonged conflict. Most international connections were severed, leaving Syria largely isolated from the global air transport system. However, the partial reopening of Damascus International Airport in December 2024 has paved the way for the return of foreign carriers, including the UAE. read more Gold prices rise, 21 Karat at EGP 3685 NATO's Role in Israeli-Palestinian Conflict US Expresses 'Strong Opposition' to New Turkish Military Operation in Syria Shoukry Meets Director-General of FAO Lavrov: confrontation bet. nuclear powers must be avoided News Iran Summons French Ambassador over Foreign Minister Remarks News Aboul Gheit Condemns Israeli Escalation in West Bank News Greek PM: Athens Plays Key Role in Improving Energy Security in Region News One Person Injured in Explosion at Ukrainian Embassy in Madrid News Ayat Khaddoura's Final Video Captures Bombardment of Beit Lahia News Australia Fines Telegram $600,000 Over Terrorism, Child Abuse Content Sports Former Al Zamalek Player Ibrahim Shika Passes away after Long Battle with Cancer Sports Neymar Announced for Brazil's Preliminary List for 2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifiers News Prime Minister Moustafa Madbouly Inaugurates Two Indian Companies Arts & Culture New Archaeological Discovery from 26th Dynasty Uncovered in Karnak Temple Business Fear & Greed Index Plummets to Lowest Level Ever Recorded amid Global Trade War Arts & Culture Zahi Hawass: Claims of Columns Beneath the Pyramid of Khafre Are Lies News Flights suspended at Port Sudan Airport after Drone Attacks News Shell Unveils Cost-Cutting, LNG Growth Plan
