"The pinnacle of transformation in aviation safety" Anticipating the future of emerging technologies and enhancing the sector’s readiness

DUBAI, 22nd October, 2017 (WAM) – The first session of the Aviation Safety Transformation Summit 2025, organized by the Dubai Civil Aviation Authority, kicked off today in Dubai, with the participation of an elite group of sector leaders, representatives of regulatory bodies, airlines, and innovators in the fields of technology.
On this occasion, the Authority confirmed that the summit represents a leading global platform for exploring the future of aviation safety and transferring knowledge about the latest practices and technologies that contribute to enhancing operational safety and sustaining the growth of the sector, in light of the rapid transformations taking place in the world of aviation, especially with the introduction of drone and flying taxi technologies.
Ahmed Salem Al Sabri, Director of the Airport and Aviation Safety Department at the Dubai Civil Aviation Authority, stressed that the Aviation Safety Transformation Summit 2025 is a pioneering platform for transferring knowledge and exchanging experiences on the latest global practices in the field of aviation safety, in light of the rapid transformations witnessed by the sector.
He explained that the event, which is hosted by Dubai and is the first of its kind, reflects the emirate’s keenness to strengthen its position as a global center for innovation in the aviation sector, noting that the number of drone operations in Dubai has exceeded 7,200 aircraft, while the number of registered commercial aircraft companies is more than 380 companies, with more than 1,200 aircraft registered for commercial purposes and 1,200 others for non-commercial purposes.
He noted that the conference focuses on preparing for the future and dealing with emerging technologies such as drones and flying taxis, noting that early planning reduces the element of surprise and contributes to supporting economic growth related to the air transport sector.
He added that the conference includes specialized training workshops in which participants receive official certificates of attendance, pointing out that all workshops will be made available later on the Authority’s website as training content open to everyone. He explained that the participating experts collectively have more than 300 years of experience in the field of air safety.
He pointed out that the topics discussed include the Air Safety Management System (ICAO Annex No. 19), the automation of safety management system procedures, and the optimal use of airspace in light of the introduction of new technologies such as drones, stressing the importance of raising awareness and ensuring the safe and orderly use of the airspace.
He said that artificial intelligence is a double-edged sword, which requires its responsible use and careful verification before integrating it into aviation systems, stressing that the Authority is working to employ modern technologies to enhance safety and reduce potential risks.
He stated that the flying taxi project implemented by Dubai in cooperation with the Roads and Transport Authority is one of the ambitious projects that the conference will accompany with specialized workshops on the take-off and landing requirements for this type of aircraft and the optimal use of the airspace for these vehicles within the concept that combines manned and unmanned vehicles.
Regarding the timetable for the commercial operation of the flying taxi in Dubai, Al-Sabri said that the operation is planned for the year 2026, explaining that the aviation sector in Dubai is witnessing continuous growth and the authority is working hard to pave the way for partners and investors to ensure a balance between the requirements of economic growth and the ambitions of investors on the one hand, and safety standards on the other hand.
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