1. On 7th December 2024, the Ministry of Transport and Infocommunications and the Department of Civil Aviation proudly joined the global aviation community in commemorating International Civil Aviation Day. This year’s theme, “Safe Skies, Sustainable Future: Together for the Next 80 Years,” powerfully emphasizes the indispensable role of civil aviation in efficiently connecting the world safely, while championing sustainability and innovation for the benefit of generations to come.
2. As a dedicated member of the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), Brunei Darussalam is steadfast in supporting the global mission of enhancing aviation safety, security, and environmental sustainability. This year’s theme also highlights the aviation sector’s crucial contributions in addressing climate change, as it supports global efforts to reduce carbon emissions and promote sustainable practices through the adoption of more efficient technologies.
3. In line with this commitment, the Ministry of Transport and Infocommunications, through the Department of Civil Aviation, actively collaborates with stakeholders at national, regional and international level. We consistently prioritize efforts to strengthen the aviation regulatory framework. As part of this commitment, we will ensure that all certifications and surveillance practices align with international standards to inspire greater confidence among passengers, and drive resilient and sustainable growth in the air transport sector.
4. We also continue to organize capacity-building activities that reflect our unwavering commitment to safety, security, and sustainability, while remaining resolute in fostering innovation and collaboration. In doing so, we aim to ensure that Brunei Darussalam can contribute in shaping the future of aviation for generations to come. This year, the Department of Civil Aviation held a series of workshops that focused on Aviation Safety and Security, strengthening readiness and capabilities among aviation authorities, airport operators, and other key stakeholders as follows:
i. Aviation Safety Series Workshops: These workshops aimed to raise safety standards and contribute to “safe skies” through collaborations with EU-ASEAN Sustainable Connectivity Package – Aviation Partnership Project (SCOPE-APP) and the Singapore Aviation Academy with a focus on Brunei Darussalam’s implementation of its State Safety Programme (SSP) and Safety Management Systems (SMS) in line with ICAO Annex 19. Training on the Resolution of Safety Issues was also conducted to address strategies for identifying, assessing, and resolving aviation safety concerns according to ICAO guidelines.
ii. Aviation Security Series Workshops: In parallel with safety initiatives, the department partnered with the Cooperative Aviation Security Programme – Asia Pacific (CASP-AP) to enhance capacity in assessing and mitigating risks to aviation security. The ICAO Aviation Security Risk Management Workshop, along with training for Aviation Security Supervisors and Abnormal Behavioral Detection, has equipped our aviation security workforce with the necessary skills and knowledge to maintain high security standards and manage risks arising from abnormal behavior in aviation environments.
iii. Environment Series Workshops: These workshops facilitated collaboration among aviation authorities, airline operators, and fuel suppliers to address challenges and develop action plans for the adoption of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF). Furthermore, Brunei Darussalam has successfully submitted its State Action Plan on Aviation Emissions, reinforcing our commitment to global climate action and sustainable aviation practices.
5. On navigational safety, we have commissioned the operations of our new Instrument Landing System (ILS) and Doppler VHF Omni Directional Range/Distance Measuring Equipment (DVOR/DME), a project delivered under the 11th National Development Plan. In addition, a new Primary Surveillance Radar (PSR) and Monopulse Secondary Surveillance Radar (MSSR) are set to be commissioned in 2025. These developments will further enhance operational safety and efficiency at Brunei International Airport.
6. On this occasion, I would like to extend my deepest appreciation to all aviation professionals, authorities, industry experts, and dedicated staff—whether directly or indirectly involved—for your contributions to ensuring the smooth operation and resilience of civil aviation. With the resolution “Together for the Next 80 years”, let’s continue to collaborate, innovate, and work together to shape a future where aviation continues to connect the world, while protecting our planet for generations to come.
Happy International Civil Aviation Day!
