UAE Leads the Future of Air Mobility: GCAA at the Forefront of eVTOL Certification and Innovation

Abu Dhabi, 03 November 2025:

In alignment with the UAE's national vision to remain at the forefront of innovation and advanced technology, the General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) continues to lead the global transformation of air mobility. As the national aviation regulator, the GCAA is actively overseeing the certification of several electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft designed for air taxi operations and cargo delivery, marking a new era in urban and regional air transport.

The certification process follows a structured and evidence-based framework, from initial application and technical review to flight testing and operational evaluation, ensuring that every aircraft meets the highest international safety and performance standards. Program timelines are determined in coordination with applicants, reflecting their readiness and ability to meet all regulatory requirements, with adjustments as needed.

H.E. Saif Mohammed Al Suwaidi, Director General of the GCAA, stated: "the GCAA has been among the first regulators worldwide to adopt and implement frameworks for Advanced Air Mobility. Our approach places safety and reliability at the core of every stage, ensuring that innovation in aviation is achieved with the same rigor and discipline that define our oversight system."

He emphasized that the GCAA's certification methodology aligns with the principles and best practices of leading global aviation authorities, maintaining a consistent, internationally recognized standard of safety oversight.

Supported by close collaboration with UAE government partners and international certification bodies, the GCAA has established dedicated teams for each eVTOL program, combining technical expertise, operational insight, and regulatory efficiency. This proactive approach allows the Authority to adapt swiftly to new technologies while ensuring full compliance with safety and operational requirements.

Eng. Aqeel Al Zarouni, Assistant Director General of the Aviation Safety Affairs Sector, added: "The GCAA's certification process is structured, transparent, and performance-driven. Program timelines are set according to the applicant's readiness and their ability to meet every regulatory milestone. Our focus is on enabling innovation through a robust and efficient certification pathway."

While specific technical and operational details are maintained within the GCAA to safeguard the integrity of certification programs, the Authority assures the aviation community and the public that every development undergoes rigorous oversight in close collaboration with aircraft manufacturers to ensure all safety benchmarks are upheld.

As a trusted national aviation authority, the GCAA remains committed to enabling the safe integration of new air mobility solutions within the UAE's aviation ecosystem, ensuring that every aircraft operating in UAE airspace does so under a modern, adaptive, and globally respected regulatory framework that enhances public confidence and reinforces the UAE's leadership in next-generation aviation.

In a related context, the General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) will host the UAE Aviation Safety Conference 2025 Today (Monday), under the theme "AI and the Future of Aviation Safety: Intelligent Skies, Safer Flights."

The two-day conference will bring together key stakeholders from the aviation sector and government entities to exchange best practices, discuss the latest regulatory developments, and showcase emerging innovations in artificial intelligence and advanced technologies shaping the future of aviation safety.

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About the GCAA

The General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) was established in 1996 by Federal Cabinet Decree (Law 4) as the national regulatory authority for civil aviation in the United Arab Emirates. Its core mission is to oversee and develop the civil aviation sector in line with the highest standards of safety, security, and sustainability.

In alignment with the UAE government's forward-looking vision and national priorities, the GCAA is committed to building a globally leading aviation system that fosters innovation, develops Emirati capabilities, and enhances the UAE's position as a hub for safe, secure, and sustainable air transport.

For more information, visit: https://www.gcaa.gov.ae/en/home   

For media inquiries, please contact:  communication@gcaa.gov.ae