International Civil Aviation Day

Published: Thursday, 09 December 2021 12:41
The celebration of this event on December 7, 2021 istaking place in a context where the civil aviation sector continues to suffer the negative consequences of the Covid-19 pandemic which is drastically slumped the economy and caused the slowdown of the sector.  International Civil Aviation Day was established in 1994 as part of ICAO's 50th anniversary activities. And in 1996 the United Nations General Assembly proclaimed 7 December as International Civil Aviation Day of the United Nations system.

It aims to raise global awareness of the importance of international civil aviation for the socio-economic development of countries. It also aims to raise awareness of ICAO's unique role in supporting and assisting States to establish a fast and truly global transport network for the benefit of all mankind.
 Aviation, as an engine of global connectivity, serves more than ever the objectives of the Chicago Convention, which make international flights fundamental enablers of world peace and prosperity.
 In Cameroon, despite the COVID-19 pandemic, several actions have been taken to ensure continuity of operations while preserving the health, safety and security of travellers and all actors in the chain.
Cameroon was one of the first countries to introduce the obligation for travellers to its territory to present a negative PCR test result at the point of departure upon boarding if the sample was taken within less than 72 hours.  In addition, as another strong point, in Cameroon, we have free testing on arrival and departure for all passengers. This avoids increasing the cost of travel and encourages massive adherence to testing.
However, the revival of civil aviation is today confronted with the legitimate choice of States to protect their population, by maintaining restrictions of various kinds on access to their territories. In this new context, international air travel will not be as easy for a long time.
The COVID-19 pandemic has also highlighted the impact that exogenous factors can have on air transport, such as the attacks of 11 September 2001, the SARS crisis in 2002/2003 or the financial crisis of 2008.  Each time, the air transport sector has shown resilience to recover and resume its growth. 
The theme of this year's celebration, which will run until 2023, is "Advancing innovation for global aviation development".