As part of the Universal Security Audit Program – Continuous Monitoring Approach (USAP-CMA) implemented by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) across member states, Oman underwent a comprehensive aviation security and facilitation audit between 9–18 February 2025.

The USAP-CMA program aims to strengthen global aviation security by conducting regular, structured assessments of each state’s implementation of critical elements of an aviation security oversight system. The audit evaluates national adherence to the standards outlined in ICAO Annex 17 (Security), Annex 9 (Facilitation), other relevant ICAO annexes, recommended practices, procedures, and associated guidance materials.

The audit covered all eight critical elements of Oman’s National Civil Aviation Security and Facilitation System. These include foundational aviation security legislation, regulatory frameworks and programs, designated authority and responsibilities, staff qualification and training, technical guidance and security-critical information, licensing and approval obligations, quality control functions, and mechanisms for addressing security deficiencies.

The audit also reviewed nine core areas of aviation security, including the regulatory framework, personnel training, quality control, airport operations, aircraft security (on-ground and in-flight), passenger and baggage screening, cargo and mail security, unlawful interference prevention, and the security aspects of facilitation procedures.

The results confirmed Oman’s strong performance and comprehensive compliance with international aviation security and facilitation standards. The Sultanate of Oman achieved a score of 94.4% in the sustainability index for effective implementation of the eight critical elements outlined in Annex 17 of the Chicago Convention. Additionally, Oman earned a 100% compliance score in the facilitation requirements of Annex 9, placing it among the top-performing countries globally.

These outcomes positioned Oman fourth among G20 countries and third in the Middle East region for civil aviation security and facilitation performance.

Commenting on the results, H.E. Eng. Naif bin Ali Al Abri, President of the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA), stated: "These results reflect Oman’s firm commitment to enhancing civil aviation security and demonstrate our constant preparedness to comply with international standards and strengthen national capabilities to ensure the safety of travelers and critical infrastructure."

"The audit outcomes will help boost international confidence in Oman’s aviation security system and reinforce the Sultanate’s position as a distinguished regional hub in this field", he added.

He also affirmed that the CAA, in collaboration with its strategic partners, will continue implementing the recommendations issued by the ICAO audit team to maintain its high compliance levels and contribute to ICAO’s overarching mission of enhancing global aviation security.

The ICAO audit team praised Oman, represented by the Civil Aviation Authority, for its high level of institutional coordination across national and operational stakeholders. The team also commended Oman’s robust efforts in capacity-building, including training, licensing, and oversight systems, as well as the qualifications of internationally certified personnel and the effective implementation of emergency security plans and threat response procedures.