GACA Joins UN Summit of the Future, Highlights Youth in Aviation

The General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) participated in the United Nations Summit of the Future in New York on September 20, 2024, marking its first engagement in a UN event. The Saudi civil aviation regulator organized a virtual session titled “Youth Development in the Civil Aviation Sector” in collaboration with the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) and the International Air Transport Association (IATA), highlighting the Kingdom’s commitment to empowering youth and advancing the aviation sector in line with Saudi Vision 2030.

Context and Background

The Summit of the Future, convened by the United Nations on September 22–23, 2024, aims to forge a unified global vision for the future and update international institutions to address 21st-century challenges. It brings together UN member states, agencies, non-governmental organizations, civil society, academic institutions, the private sector, and youth representatives. The preparatory action days on September 20–21 provided additional opportunities for stakeholder engagement. GACA’s proposal for a side event was selected among 40 approved activities out of 400 submissions from various countries, underscoring the Kingdom’s growing role in international civil aviation dialogue.

Key Details

In his address, Abdulaziz bin Abdullah Al-Duailej, President of GACA, emphasized the critical need for human capital development in aviation. He noted that the global sector will require an estimated 284,000 new pilots over the next decade, alongside significant demand for maintenance professionals. In Saudi Arabia, the aviation sector is projected to create approximately 279,000 direct jobs by 2030, an increase of nearly 300% from the current 73,000 positions. Al-Duailej stated, “Youth constitute more than 60% of Saudi Arabia’s population, and this energy is exactly what we need to drive innovation and ensure the sector’s sustainability. The Saudi Vision 2030 focuses on youth development, and aviation is one of the key sectors in which we invest heavily through education, training, and professional development.”

Implications and Impact

GACA’s participation in the Summit of the Future signals Saudi Arabia’s proactive engagement in global governance and sustainable development. By aligning with ICAO and IATA, the Kingdom positions itself as a leader in shaping the future of civil aviation, particularly in youth empowerment and workforce readiness. This initiative not only addresses the sector’s talent gap but also reinforces Saudi Arabia’s role as a bridge between developed and developing nations in aviation. The focus on youth development resonates with global efforts to achieve the UN Sustainable Development Goals, especially those related to decent work and economic growth.

Vision 2030 Alignment

This participation exemplifies Saudi Vision 2030’s emphasis on youth empowerment and economic diversification. By investing in education and training for young Saudis, GACA is helping to build a skilled workforce that will drive the aviation sector’s growth and contribute to the Kingdom’s long-term prosperity. As Saudi Arabia continues to expand its aviation infrastructure and global connectivity, such international collaborations will be instrumental in realizing the vision of a vibrant, diversified economy and a prominent global role.

20 Questions

Q1. What is the Summit of the Future?

A1. The Summit of the Future is a United Nations event held on September 22–23, 2024, aiming to adopt a unified global vision and update international institutions to address 21st-century challenges.

Q2. When did GACA participate in the Summit of the Future?

A2. GACA participated on September 20, 2024, during the preparatory action days of the summit.

Q3. What was the title of GACA’s virtual session?

A3. The session was titled “Youth Development in the Civil Aviation Sector.”

Q4. Which organizations collaborated with GACA for the session?

A4. GACA collaborated with the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) and the International Air Transport Association (IATA).

Q5. Was this GACA’s first participation in a UN event?

A5. Yes, this marked GACA’s first participation in any United Nations event.

Q6. How many proposals were submitted for side events at the summit?

A6. Over 400 proposals were submitted by various countries, and GACA’s was among 40 approved activities.

Q7. Who is the President of GACA?

A7. Abdulaziz bin Abdullah Al-Duailej is the President of GACA.

Q8. What did Al-Duailej say about the need for pilots?

A8. He stated that estimates indicate a need for 284,000 new pilots globally over the next ten years.

Q9. How many direct jobs is Saudi Arabia’s aviation sector expected to create by 2030?

A9. The sector is expected to create about 279,000 direct jobs by 2030, up from 73,000 currently.

Q10. What percentage of Saudi Arabia’s population is youth?

A10. Youth constitute more than 60% of Saudi Arabia’s population.

Q11. How does Vision 2030 relate to youth development in aviation?

A11. Vision 2030 focuses on youth empowerment, and aviation is a key sector for investment in education, training, and professional development.

Q12. What is the main goal of the Summit of the Future?

A12. The summit aims to adopt a unified global vision for the future and update UN institutions to keep pace with rapid changes.

Q13. When were the preparatory action days held?

A13. The preparatory action days were held on September 20–21, 2024.

Q14. Who participated in the Summit of the Future?

A14. Participants included UN member states, UN agencies, non-governmental organizations, civil society, academic institutions, the private sector, and youth.

Q15. What is the significance of GACA’s participation for Saudi Arabia?

A15. It highlights Saudi Arabia’s commitment to international cooperation and its leadership in civil aviation, aligning with Vision 2030 goals.

Q16. What collaboration did GACA have with ICAO and IATA?

A16. GACA organized a virtual session on youth development in civil aviation in collaboration with ICAO and IATA.

Q17. What did Al-Duailej emphasize about Saudi youth?

A17. He emphasized that youth energy is essential for driving innovation and ensuring the sustainability of the aviation sector.

Q18. How does GACA’s initiative support the UN Sustainable Development Goals?

A18. It supports goals related to decent work, economic growth, and quality education by investing in youth training and job creation.

Q19. What is the expected increase in aviation jobs in Saudi Arabia by 2030?

A19. The sector is projected to grow from 73,000 to 279,000 direct jobs, an increase of approximately 300%.

Q20. What message does GACA’s participation send to the global community?

A20. It demonstrates Saudi Arabia’s proactive role in shaping the future of civil aviation and its dedication to empowering youth on a global stage.

---