GCAA announces third edition of innovation and sustainability award

The global award is aimed at fostering innovation and sustainability in the aviation sector. This edition is held in collaboration with the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) following the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the two entities during the Global Sustainable Aviation Marketplace (GSAM) event in February.

With a total prize value of one million US dollars, the award seeks to encourage groundbreaking solutions and research that contribute to the development of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) and the overall advancement of aviation sustainability.

Abdulla bin Touq Al Marri, Minister of Economy and Chairman of the General Civil Aviation Authority, said: "In line with the guidance of our wise leadership, the UAE is committed to enhancing its pioneering role in supporting innovation and achieving a more prosperous and sustainable future for the global aviation sector. The Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Global Aviation Award is one of the UAE prominent contributions in this context, as it strengthens drive the transformation toward more sustainable aviation worldwide." 

He continued: "Through this edition of the award, we focus on  encouraging activities and fields of  scientific research and innovation, and honoring individuals and institutions that contribute to the development of sustainable aviation fuel solutions. We are confident that this award will be a key driver in expanding the horizons of international collaboration in aviation, supporting our joint efforts toward achieving a more sustainable and safer world."

Saif Mohammed Al Suwaidi, director general of the GCAA, said: "The third edition of the Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Global Aviation Award has been developed to reflect our deep commitment to a better future for the aviation industry. The categories of this edition aim to stimulate healthy competition among academic, research, and scientific institutions related to the aviation sector, with the goal of producing innovative and actionable solutions that contribute to the sustainability of this vital industry. This aligns with the UAE's vision to support and develop the aviation sector on a global scale.'

He added: "We look forward to receiving pioneering contributions that will help shape a more prosperous future for the civil aviation industry."