Five ASEAN countries are collaborating to “enhance safety” by sharing aviation data and information.
Indonesia, Malaysia, the Phillipines, Singapore and Thailand have launched the Regional Aviation Safety Data and Information Sharing Initiative.
Under a memorandum of understanding, the civil aviation authorities of each nation will share data on seven different categories, including traffic collision avoidance systems, deviations from air traffic control assigned altitude and ground proximity warning systems or terrain and awareness and warning system activations.
The countries will also share information on severe turbulence, windshear, bird strikes and dangerous goods incidents.
The aim of the initiative is to identify safety hazards and trends and develop mitigating measures to better manage safety risks.
Captain Norazman bin Mahmud, CEO of the Civil Aviation Authority of Malaysia (CAAM), said: “Air transport is at the heart of global economic growth. Therefore, ensuring the highest level of safety and security of air operation and creating safer and more sustainable skies is paramount.
“Through this collaborative initiative by the states’ regulators of the aviation industry, the ability to address safety risks proactively while fostering sustainable aviation practices are enhanced.
“By sharing safety data and insights, we can ensure the highest safety standards can be achieved while contributing to a greener future for aviation.”
The countries said they recognise that the cross-border nature of aviation necessitates close co-operation and collaboration amongst civil aviation authorities to enhance aviation safety and address safety risks.
A collective and co-ordinated approach, involving the sharing of safety data and safety information among relevant parties, will better ensure timely and effective identification, resolution and management, they also said.
Suttipong Kongpool, director general of the Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT), said: “Thailand is proud to be part of this meaningful collaboration, which reinforces our shared responsibility for the safe and efficient use of common airspace.
“By exchanging critical safety data and information, we are prioritising the safety of global citizens and contributing to strengthening global safety.
“This initiative reflects our dedication to identifying and addressing risks in a collaborative manner, working together with trusted partners to build our region into an aviation hub where safety is at the core.”
He added that Thailand “remains committed to upholding higher safety standards and ensuring the long-term resilience of aviation for the benefit of all”.
The memorandum of understanding was signed at the 59th Conference of Directors General of Civil Aviation, Asia and Pacific Regions in the Philippines held on 16 October.
ASEAN – the Association of Southeast Asian Nations – is a political and economic union of 10 countries in Southeast Asia. Other members include Brunei, Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar and Vietnam.
