UAE sets historic record in aviation sector with over one million air movements in 2024

emirates7 - The General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) has announced a groundbreaking achievement that solidifies the UAE's position as a leader in global aviation. In 2024, the Sheikh Zayed Air Navigation Centre successfully managed over one million air traffic movements, a first in the nation’s history.

In a statement released today, the GCAA emphasized that this milestone underscores the UAE's reputation as a global aviation hub, driven by its strategic geographic location, cutting-edge infrastructure, and highly efficient operational systems.

Reaching this landmark reflects the relentless efforts of the GCAA and the Sheikh Zayed Air Navigation Centre to provide world-class air navigation services that cater to the needs of international airlines while enhancing the overall air travel experience.

Abdullah bin Touq Al Marri, Minister of Economy and Chairman of the GCAA, highlighted the significance of this accomplishment, stating, "Guided by the vision of our leadership, the UAE has implemented forward-thinking initiatives and strategies to bolster its competitiveness and prominence in civil aviation and air services on both regional and global levels. Surpassing one million air traffic movements in a single year is not just a statistical milestone but a testament to the UAE's commitment to developing the aviation sector as a vital pillar of its economy and its role as a premier global air transport hub."

He added, "This achievement demonstrates the nation’s ability to deliver innovative and integrated solutions that optimize aviation operations. With a growth in air traffic exceeding 20% over the past two years—among the highest globally—the UAE is well-positioned to handle even greater demand, supported by its advanced infrastructure, skilled workforce, and cutting-edge technology."

Saif Mohammed Al Suwaidi, GCAA Director-General, praised the Sheikh Zayed Air Navigation Centre's dedication and teamwork, noting that this milestone reflects years of strategic planning, technological innovation, and collaboration with aviation sector partners. He highlighted that in 2024, air traffic grew by an impressive 10.3% compared to 2023, reinforcing the Centre's commitment to maintaining high standards of safety and efficiency while driving sustainable development.

On December 22, 2024, the Centre recorded its one-millionth air traffic movement, marked by the arrival of Emirates Flight 305 from Shanghai. This historic moment underscores the Centre’s adoption of cutting-edge technologies and its pursuit of excellence in aviation, securing its prominent role in the industry.

This milestone also reflects the UAE’s strategic vision, which prioritizes leadership, innovation, and sustainability. As the global aviation sector recovers from pandemic-related challenges, the Sheikh Zayed Air Navigation Centre has showcased its capability to effectively manage increasing air traffic while setting new benchmarks in airspace management.

Throughout 2024, the Centre implemented significant advancements, such as integrating advanced systems and adopting innovative approaches to enhance airspace efficiency and minimize delays. Aligning with the “We the UAE 2031” vision and “The Year of Sustainability,” the Centre also embraced eco-friendly practices to support national sustainability goals and reduce the aviation sector’s environmental impact. These efforts have expanded airspace capacity to meet growing demands while maintaining the highest safety and reliability standards, further boosting global airlines' confidence in the UAE’s services.