Middle Eastern civil aviation authorities have agreed to strengthen regional cooperation on operational disruptions, including airspace closures, under a framework for joint support and resource-sharing. The Middle East Regional Aviation Assistance Framework (MID-RAAF) is intended to help states coordinate aviation priorities and develop action plans. The agreement followed a meeting in Doha hosted by Qatar from 26 to 28 October and organized by ICAO.
Delegates also called for contingency planning, timely information-sharing and coordinated responses when airspace is closed. ICAO’s Middle East Contingency Coordination Team was recognized as a central support mechanism. The outcomes establish cooperation arrangements; they do not indicate that any specific closure has ended. ICAO has not detailed implementation timelines or individual state commitments.
Jordan agreed to host the Middle East Regional Flight Procedure Programme. Delegates also supported the proposed ELEVATE initiative to improve air traffic management coordination between the Middle East, Asia-Pacific and Europe. The initiative aims to improve route planning and reduce delays and fuel use, although no quantified effects were provided.
The meeting also addressed technical assistance and capacity-building. A first MID Development Partners Dialogue considered partnerships and resource mobilization, while participants reviewed progress towards a proposed Middle East and North Africa Regional Safety Oversight Organization.