Emphasizing the Importance of Civil Aviation For Global Recovery of COVID-19 Crisis

Civil aviation is one of the two major categories of flying, representing all non-military aviation, both private and commercial. Most countries in the world are members of the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) and work collaboratively in establishing common standard and recommended practices.

An International Civil Aviation Day is celebrated annually on 7^th December with an aim to generate and reinforce worldwide awareness of the importance of international civil aviation to the social and economic development of countries. Additionally, it is also a tribute to ICAO, for their unique role in helping countries cooperate and realize a truly global rapid transit network at the service of all mankind.

Whilst the day is observed amidst a global pandemic this year, ICAO has been advocating regarding the importance of the aviation industry to the post-coronavirus crisis global recovery and here is why.

Global response must critically consider the role of international air transport as a worldwide enabler during this time of crisis in which vital air cargo services supporting the global supply chains and the rescue of stranded passengers, as well as timely emergency and humanitarian response capabilities. In addition to this, worldwide air transport connectivity stimulates economies through employment, trade and tourism.

Whilst a combination of travel restrictions, country mandates, economic impacts and safety concerns battered the civil aviation industry as a whole due to the pandemic, ICAO calls upon countries and financial institutions to examine the best means of supporting sectoral stakeholders, airlines, airports, air navigation service providers and manufacturers, without prejudice to fair competition and by ensuring transparency.

The case is not any different in Maldives, hence, the government must seriously consider this advice and follow through accordingly.