The United Nations(UN)’s International Civil Aviation Day is annually observed across the globe on 7th December to create awareness about the importance of international civil aviation in the social and economic development of the nations.
- The day also highlights the unique role of International Civil Aviation Organization(ICAO), a UN Specialized agency, in supporting the member states to cooperate and realize the global rapid transit network.
Theme:
The theme of International Civil Aviation Day 2022 is “Advancing Innovation for Global Aviation Development”.
- Every 5 years(coinciding with ICAO anniversaries), the ICAO council establishes a special anniversary theme for International Civil Aviation Day. Between these anniversary years, Council select a single theme for the full 4-year intervening period.
- It was decided that the theme of International Civil Aviation Day from 2020 to 2023 will be “Advancing Innovation for Global Aviation Development”.
Background:
i.International Civil Aviation Day was established in 1994 as part of ICAO’s 50th anniversary activities.
ii.In 1996, the United Nations General Assembly(UNGA) adopted the resolution A/RES/51/33, and proclaimed the 7th December of every year as the International Civil Aviation Day.
iii.The resolution was adopted in pursuant to the ICAO’s International Civil Aviation Day initiative and with the assistance of the Governemnt of Canada.
History of ICAO:
At the invitation of the United States of America, delegates from 54 nations met in Chicago, USA in 1944 where they concluded and signed the Convention on International Civil Aviation(Chicago Convention) which defines the agreement that permits the global civil aviation system to develop peacefully and in a manner benefitting all peoples and nations across the globe.
About International Civil Aviation Organization(ICAO):
ICAO is funded and directed by 193 national governments to support their diplomacy and cooperation in air transport as signatory states to the Chicago Convention (1944).
Secretary General– Juan Carlos Salazar
Headquarters– Montreal, Canada
