Doha: Under the patronage of HE Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al-Thani, HE Minister of Transport Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdullah bin Mohammed Al-Thani inaugurated the ICAO Facilitation Conference (FALC 2025). The event brings together over 120 ministers and heads of civil aviation authorities from around the globe, alongside numerous top officials, experts, and leaders in the civil aviation sector, representing 190 countries.
According to Qatar News Agency, the conference, hosted by the State of Qatar and organized by the General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA), is held under the theme: “Facilitating the Future of Air Transport: Collaboration, Efficiency, Inclusivity”. It serves as a platform for states and aviation industry stakeholders to explore advancements in air transport facilitation, encouraging dialogue on improving cooperation and operational efficiency in global air travel.
Running through April 17, the conference aims to set a global facilitation strategy that enhances adaptability and responsiveness to rapid developments in civil aviation. The high-level ministerial segment will identify strategic trajectories and reaffirm the global commitment to fostering air transport facilitation, discussing and approving initiatives that bolster facilitation’s role in connecting communities and ensuring smooth international mobility.
In his remarks, HE the Minister of Transport highlighted the importance of the convention amid mounting challenges in the civil aviation sector. He emphasized the necessity for operational flexibility, response to regulatory and economic changes, and digital transformation. The conference is seen as a pivotal platform for advancing innovative solutions to build a more efficient and sustainable air transport system.
HE the Minister affirmed that hosting this conference underscores Qatar’s priority in the civil aviation sector as a core pillar of economic advancement and a catalyst for strengthening regional and international connectivity. He emphasized Qatar’s strategic investments in civil aviation infrastructure and its commitment to fostering air transport facilitations, aligning with the Qatar National Vision 2030.
He also praised Hamad International Airport (HIA) and Qatar Airways for their world-class infrastructure and integrated travel experience. Qatar Airways’ collaboration with the International Air Transport Association (IATA) demonstrates its support for implementing best international practices in air transport facilitation.
His Excellency invited participants to deepen international cooperation and engage in productive discussions to improve air transport facilitation and traveler experience. He also welcomed ministers and senior officials to the High-Level Ministerial Segment, where a joint ministerial declaration will be announced to promote a unified approach to air transport facilitation.
Mohamed bin Faleh Al Hajri, In Charge of Managing QCAA, highlighted Qatar’s emergence as a global aviation leader, driven by advanced infrastructure, intellectual leadership, and active engagement in ICAO initiatives. He emphasized the importance of the conference’s theme for achieving efficiency and inclusivity in global movement.
Al Hajri underscored the conference’s sessions as vital for developing air transport facilitation and strengthening the global aviation system’s resilience and adaptability. He urged open dialogue among member states and participants to promote best practices and practical solutions.
The ICAO Facilitation Conference will feature sessions on key issues such as cargo release clearance, travel document integrity, combating human trafficking, and innovation in facilitation. The conference will conclude with the adoption of the Doha Declaration on Facilitation of International Air Transport.
An accompanying exhibition will showcase the latest procedures and technologies in air transport facilitation, offering unique insights into the industry’s advancements.