The General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) has announced a groundbreaking achievement that bolsters the UAE’s position as a global leader in aviation. The Sheikh Zayed Air Navigation Centre has surpassed one million air traffic movements in 2024, marking a historic milestone for the nation’s aviation sector.
In a press statement released today, the GCAA emphasized that this accomplishment represents a major milestone in the UAE’s aviation journey, renowned for its commitment to excellence and innovation.
This achievement highlights the UAE’s vital role as a global aviation hub, leveraging its strategic location, state-of-the-art infrastructure, and highly efficient operational systems. Reaching over one million air traffic movements in a single year reflects the relentless dedication of the GCAA and the Sheikh Zayed Air Navigation Centre to delivering world-class air navigation services that cater to global airlines’ needs and elevate the air travel experience.
Abdullah bin Touq Al Marri, Minister of Economy and Chairman of GCAA, remarked, “Under the guidance of our wise leadership, the UAE has implemented innovative national initiatives and strategies to enhance its competitiveness and prominence in the civil aviation and air services sector, both regionally and globally. Achieving the milestone of one million air traffic movements in a single year is not a mere numerical achievement but a reflection of the UAE’s steadfast commitment to developing the aviation sector as a cornerstone of its national economy and solidifying its position as a global air transport destination.”
He further noted, “This accomplishment highlights the country’s capacity to deliver innovative and integrated solutions that enhance the efficiency of aviation operations. With over 20 per cent growth in air traffic over the past two years, among the highest globally, the UAE is well-equipped to handle even greater volumes in the years ahead, supported by advanced infrastructure, a skilled workforce, and state-of-the-art technologies.”
Saif Mohammed Al Suwaidi, Director-General of GCAA, praised the efforts behind this milestone, saying, “Exceeding one million air traffic movements reflects the dedication and hard work of the team at the Sheikh Zayed Air Navigation Centre. This is a result of years of planning, innovation, and close collaboration with our partners in the aviation sector. With an average growth rate of 10.3 per cent in 2024 compared to last year 2023, we remain committed to continuously enhancing our systems and services to uphold the highest standards of safety and efficiency, reflecting sustainable development and continued success in managing air traffic successfully and professionally.”
On December 22, 2024, the one-millionth air traffic movement was recorded with the arrival of Emirates Flight 305 from Shanghai, marking a historic moment for the Sheikh Zayed Air Navigation Centre. This milestone showcases the Centre’s adoption of cutting-edge technologies and its pursuit of excellence in aviation.
This remarkable achievement aligns with the UAE’s strategic vision, focusing on leadership, innovation, and sustainability. As the global aviation industry rebounds from the challenges of the pandemic, the Sheikh Zayed Air Navigation Centre has demonstrated its ability to manage increasing air traffic efficiently and flexibly, setting a global benchmark in airspace management.
In 2024, the Centre achieved significant advancements, including the integration of advanced systems and innovative solutions to enhance airspace efficiency and reduce delays. In line with the “We the UAE 2031” vision and “The Year of Sustainability,” the Centre adopted sustainable practices to support the nation’s goals and reduce the aviation sector’s environmental impact.
Additionally, it enhanced airspace capacity to meet growing demands while maintaining the highest safety and reliability standards, further strengthening global airlines’ confidence in the UAE’s aviation services.
