Engineer Maryam Al Balooshi, Senior Director of the Environmental Affairs Office at the UAE’s General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA), has been elected Chair of the Environmental Protection Committee of the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO).
The election took place during the 14th session of the committee, held in Singapore, with participation from representatives of 34 member states.
Maryam Al Balooshi is the first specialist from the Middle East to assume this position, which carries significant global responsibilities related to shaping the future of aviation, reducing environmental impacts, and supporting the sector’s economic sustainability and growth.
His Excellency Abdullah bin Touq Al Marri, Minister of Economy and Tourism and Chairman of the GCAA, stated that the confidence shown by international organizations in Emirati talent is deeply appreciated, and reflects the UAE’s prominent presence in the global aviation sector and its capability to lead specialized files and shape future directions.
He added that Al Balooshi’s election is a reflection of the trust and respect Emirati professionals enjoy globally, and a testament that the region’s talents are well-qualified to contribute to international decision-making.
For his part, Saif Mohammed Al Suwaidi, Director General of the GCAA, emphasized that the ICAO Environmental Protection Committee is a highly influential technical body, with many decisions by the ICAO Assembly being based on its outcomes. The committee provides the necessary understanding of environmental requirements and their economic implications on aviation.
He noted that Maryam Al Balooshi’s leadership will be a valuable addition to the UAE’s efforts in this vital field, expressing full confidence in her ability to advance this file and support sustainability in the aviation sector.
The Environmental Protection Committee is a technical advisory body reporting to the ICAO Council. It consists of 11 working groups and nearly 1,200 global experts. The committee’s responsibilities include developing international standards, policies, and guidelines addressing aviation’s environmental impacts.
Its teams work on key areas such as aircraft noise, engine emissions, climate change, sustainable aviation fuel, and environmental management tools. The committee also provides scientific, technical, and economic assessments to support the development of global environmental regulations for aviation.
