Pakistan’s aviation sector has reached a new milestone by receiving the Council President Certificate (CPC) from the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO). This prestigious award was presented at the 42nd ICAO Assembly in Montreal, Canada. The honor was accepted by Mr. Nadir Shafi Dar, Director General of the Pakistan Civil Aviation Authority (PCAA), in recognition of Pakistan’s outstanding achievements in aviation security and safety standards.
What is the ICAO Council President Certificate?
The Council President Certificate (CPC) is one of the most respected recognitions in global aviation. It is awarded to countries that demonstrate excellence in:
- Implementing aviation security measures.
- Complying with ICAO’s Standards and Recommended Practices (SARPs).
- Maintaining international best practices in air travel safety.
For Pakistan, receiving the CPC means global acknowledgment of its progress in securing air travel and strengthening its reputation as a reliable aviation partner.
Award Ceremony at ICAO Assembly
The award was conferred during the 42nd ICAO Assembly, which gathers global aviation leaders, experts, and policymakers. In a special ceremony, Mr. Nadir Shafi Dar accepted the certificate on behalf of PCAA.
He emphasized Pakistan’s dedication to continuous compliance with ICAO’s SARPs, ensuring that both domestic and international travelers benefit from world-class aviation security standards.
Pakistan’s Achievements in Aviation Security
Pakistan has shown impressive results in international aviation audits:
| Audit / Programme | Year | Effective Implementation (EI) Score | Comparison |
|---|---|---|---|
| ICAO Coordinated Validation Mission (ICVM) | 2024 | 84.69% | Above regional & global average |
| Universal Safety Oversight Audit Programme (USAP) | 2024 | 86.79% | Surpassed global benchmarks |
These scores highlight the strong performance of the PCAA in adopting modern security measures, investing in technology, and training aviation personnel to meet global expectations.
Voices of Recognition
Several prominent figures highlighted the importance of this achievement:
- Mr. Nadir Shafi Dar reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to global aviation safety standards.
- High Commissioner Muhammad Saleem described the award as “timely and significant”, noting its role in boosting international connectivity.
- He also shared that 16 million international passengers traveled through Pakistan in 2024, compared to 5.8 million domestic passengers, showing Pakistan’s growing role in international aviation.
Why This Recognition Matters
The CPC award reflects more than just compliance—it shows:
- Pakistan’s capability to ensure safe and secure air travel.
- Increased global trust in Pakistan’s aviation infrastructure.
- Stronger economic growth opportunities, as a secure aviation industry attracts international airlines and business investments.
- The potential to turn Pakistan into a regional aviation hub for passengers and cargo.
Future of Pakistan’s Aviation Sector
The ICAO recognition paves the way for:
- Expansion of international flights with more airlines choosing Pakistan.
- Growth in cargo and logistics services, boosting trade.
- Continued investment in aviation infrastructure and training.
- Enhancing Pakistan’s image as a safe, reliable, and connected nation in global aviation.
Conclusion
The ICAO Council President Certificate is a proud achievement for Pakistan, recognizing its excellence in aviation security and compliance with global standards. With rising international passenger numbers, strong audit scores, and continued commitment to security, Pakistan’s aviation industry is entering a promising era.
This honor is not just a recognition of past progress—it is a signal of a bright and secure future for Pakistan’s role in global aviation.
