Since the launch of Oman Vision 2040, the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) has diligently embodied its strategic pillars into practical plans and programs that enhance the competitiveness and sustainability of the sector. 

Over the past five years, CAA has achieved tangible progress in digital transformation, infrastructure development, national workforce empowerment, and environmental sustainability, establishing itself as one of the leading government institutions supporting the national vision’s objectives.

In 2025, the CAA continued this momentum, achieving a series of qualitative accomplishments that strengthened Oman’s regional and international standing in civil aviation.

Aligning Strategic Plans with the Economy and Sustainable Development:

The CAA’s plans align with the diversified and sustainable economic pillar of Oman Vision 2040 through the development of airport infrastructure and implementation of strategic projects, notably the Southern Runway at Muscat International Airport and Sohar Airport.

Regarding safety and security, The Sultanate of Oman achieved a compliance rate of 95.95%, ranking fifth globally and second in the Gulf in the Effective Implementation of Safety Oversight Index. In 2025, Oman maintained its success with a compliance rate of 94.4%, ranking third in the Middle East under the Universal Safety Audit Program, Continuous Monitoring Approach (USAP-CMA). Consequently, Oman secured fourth place among G20 countries in aviation security and third place in the Middle East in civil aviation safety and facilitation.

During the same year of 2025, the Authority signed three bilateral agreements and three memoranda of understanding in air transport with several countries, bringing the total number of air transport agreements to 130, including 84 open-sky agreements.

Strengthening Oman’s Position as a Regional Aviation and Logistics Hub

The CAA has reinforced Oman’s role as a leading regional aviation and logistics hub by joining several key international agreements, including the Beijing Agreements of 2010 and the Comprehensive Agreement with the European Union.

In 2025, the President of the Civil Aviation Authority was nominated as Chairperson of the 42nd General Assembly of the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), and Oman received the “President of the Council” certificate from ICAO in recognition of its pioneering efforts in promoting aviation safety and security. Oman also recently participated with a high-level delegation in the 42nd ICAO General Assembly, strengthening its international presence and influence in global aviation policymaking.

Leadership and Economic Management

Regionally, the Director General of Civil Aviation was elected First Vice-Chair of the Regional Aviation Safety Group for the Middle East (RASG-MID), and the Director of Air Navigation Safety was elected Second Vice-Chair of the Regional Planning and Implementation Group (MIDANPIRG). The Director General was also nominated as Vice-Chair of the Regional Safety Enhancement Initiatives Team.

These achievements build on the Authority’s prior accomplishments, including chairing the Strategic and Policy Committee of the Arab Civil Aviation Organization and hosting major international events such as ICAO Security Week 2024 and high-level ministerial meetings, reinforcing Oman’s regional and global presence.

Integration with Tourism, Economy, and Services

The Authority has promoted integration between the aviation sector and tourism, economy, and services through strategic initiatives linking aviation to local development. Key initiatives include launching flights to Masirah to support domestic tourism and implementing the national air transport plan to enhance connectivity between governorates and regional and international capitals.

The CAA also facilitated logistics and free-zone projects by streamlining licensing procedures for seaplane operations and drones, regulated under new guidelines in 2025, providing a flexible and investment-friendly business environment.

Additionally, the Authority collaborated with military, security, and civil institutions in field exercises such as “Joint Shield” to enhance emergency preparedness and launched the Civil Aviation Security and Facilitation Guide to standardize procedures across entities.

Digital Transformation and Innovation in Aviation

The CAA has achieved a major digital transformation, with 100% of meteorology and air navigation services digitized. In 2025, it launched an upgraded version of the Oman Meteorology website and its smart application and implemented initiatives including the digitization of 113 government services, the launch of an Electronic Document and Records Management System (EDRMS), and the development of the Authority’s official website, improving operational efficiency and expediting processes.

The Authority also participated in the 11th Coordination Group meeting for virtual laboratories of Centers of Excellence in satellite applications, reflecting its leadership in applying advanced technologies. AI and advanced technology initiatives were adopted to support digital sustainability and operational efficiency, alongside achieving ISO 27001:2013 Information Security certification.

National Capacity Building and Youth Empowerment

The Authority prioritizes empowering Omani youth through continuous training and qualification programs in collaboration with the Oman Aviation Academy, accredited by EASA and CAA. In 2024, the CAA had an active regional and international presence, with the President of the Authority appointed Chair of the Strategic and Policy Committee of the Arab Civil Aviation Organization and the Director General of Meteorology elected Chair of the Asia Regional Group of the World Meteorological Organization.

Additionally, key personnel were appointed to national and international climate negotiation teams and regional tsunami warning groups. Several directors held leadership roles in Arab and international aviation organizations, reflecting the excellence of Omani competencies.

The Authority has won awards for human resources innovation and best practices in on boarding new employees, including first place among government institutions in change management governance, demonstrating success in preparing young leaders capable of steering the future of aviation.

Community Engagement, Media Presence, and Beneficiary Satisfaction

The CAA strengthened its media presence by launching its updated visual identity and media policy and organized national awareness campaigns, including public education on climate hazards and tsunami risks in multiple governorates, most recently in South Sharqiyah.

Youth engagement initiatives include the digital platform “Afaq” and interactive dialogue sessions, emphasizing community participation and innovation. In 2023, the Authority organized the annual weather enthusiasts’ forum and issued commemorative stamps marking Oman’s 50 years of membership in ICAO and the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) in 2025.

Environmental Sustainability and Carbon Emission Reduction

In 2025, the Authority issued national legislation implementing the CORSIA program and monitored the national action plan to reduce emissions in international civil aviation.

Oman also participated in COP26, submitting nationally determined contributions (NDCs) and promoting international cooperation in sustainable aviation fuels and green hydrogen. Key environmental initiatives include the Wadi Flood Index project, the first hydrogen station at Muscat Airport, and national awareness campaigns on climate hazards and tsunamis.

Airport Infrastructure Development and Economic Growth

The CAA continued infrastructure development by operating Muscat International Airport’s Southern Runway and enhancing passenger experience through the Airport Service Quality (ASQ) index, alongside provincial airport development projects.

Over five years, the Civil Aviation Authority has proven that investing in people, technology, and sustainability is the path to a safer, more innovative aviation future, confidently advancing Oman Vision 2040 goals of building a diversified economy, sustainable environment, and a society empowered by competency and responsibility.