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ICAO Launches New 2026-2050 Strategic Plan 

DALLAS — The International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) has unveiled its groundbreaking 2026-2050 Strategic Plan: "Safe Skies, Sustainable Future."

ICAO, a United Nations agency that helps 193 countries to cooperate and share their skies to their mutual benefit, has launched a new plan designed to ensure a safe, secure, and sustainable global aviation system that will increase connectivity, drive innovation, enhance safety and security, and shape an impactful future for global aviation. 

The plan was approved by the ICAO Council last month.

"This Strategic Plan reflects our shared vision for aviation's future. It charts a course where aviation continues to drive global connectivity, economic growth, and cultural exchange through sustainable and inclusive development. Together with our Member States, we are building an aviation system that serves everyone," ICAO Council President Salvatore Sciacchitano said.

Image: ICAO

Essential Aspirations

This Strategic Plan is a commitment to ICAO’s highest aspirations and its determination to achieve them. Under the theme “Safe Skies, Sustainable Future,” the strategic plan outlines ICAO’s vision for the next 25 years, driven by three essential aspirations, including :

1. Reaching zero fatalities from aviation accidents and acts of unlawful interference. 

2. Achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2050 for international civil aviation operations.

3. Positioning aviation as a vital part of a connected, accessible, inclusive, and affordable global transport system, fostering socio-economic development and ensuring that no country is left behind.

"As we face unprecedented growth and transformation in our sector, we are setting ambitious yet achievable goals that will shape aviation's future while ensuring no country is left behind," said Secretary General Juan Carlos Salazar.

Photo: ICAO

Sustainable Development Goals

To ensure ongoing alignment with the evolving needs of the aviation sector and the objectives of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), the ICAO will review and update the plan every six years to incorporate new challenges, opportunities, and best practices. 

The plan continues ICAO’s vital mission to connect the world safely, securely, and sustainably and comes as the organization commemorates its 80th anniversary on December 7, 2024. 

The plan also recognizes the need to embrace the transformative role of technology in aviation’s future development while ensuring that the needs of all member states are met.

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