The International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) is set to host its 42nd Assembly from September 23 to October 3 in Montreal, Canada, where global civil aviation regulations and standards will be established. Amid ongoing discussions about aviation safety, Taiwan has urged ICAO to allow its full participation in the Assembly and related technical meetings, emphasizing the critical importance of regional aviation safety and development, reports 24brussels.
Meeting regional aviation safety and development needs
The Taipei Flight Information Region (FIR) accounts for a significant portion of East Asia’s air travel, integral to ICAO’s network of over 300 FIRs. The Taiwan Civil Aviation Administration (CAA) independently oversees the Taipei FIR, providing essential information services and managing air routes to ensure safety and efficiency for all air traffic. To bolster flight safety, ICAO is urged to allow Taiwan’s CAA to engage equally alongside other FIR oversight agencies, facilitating direct communication that is vital for effective air traffic management.
Despite lacking authority over the Taipei FIR, China has unilaterally declared temporary danger zones and established military exercise areas within it, contravening ICAO’s protocols requiring a minimum seven-day advance notice. These actions have compromised flight safety in the Taipei FIR and surrounding regions.
Taiwan, managing substantial traffic through the Taipei FIR, actively seeks to be a responsible member of the international aviation community. In light of increasing natural and geopolitical challenges, Taiwan reiterates the need for ICAO to recognize the significance of its participation in enhancing regional flight safety.
Achieving safe skies and a sustainable future
The CAA strives to comply with international aviation safety standards, often collecting data through indirect means and organizing training sessions with foreign aviation experts. These efforts enable the CAA to align with ICAO’s regulations, contributing to Taiwan’s commendable safety record. Between 2020 and 2024, Taiwan reported zero accidents for turbofan and turboprop aircraft per million departures, reflecting its robust aviation standards. Notably, EVA Air has been recognized as one of the safest airlines globally.
To further support the sustainable development of aviation, the CAA has adopted the Carbon Offsetting and Reduction Scheme for International Aviation (CORSIA) into domestic law and initiated a sustainable aviation fuel pilot program in April 2025. These proactive measures signal Taiwan’s commitment to achieving net-zero emissions in the aviation sector.
Nevertheless, to ensure adequate access to timely information, Taiwan’s CAA must be included in ICAO’s technical meetings and training initiatives. ICAO’s No One Left Behind initiative should address the current exclusion of the CAA from its activities.
Taiwan needs your support
Aviation safety transcends borders. For decades, the CAA has upheld high service and safety standards within the Taipei FIR, in alignment with ICAO Standards and Recommended Practices. Taiwan’s participation in ICAO would enhance its collaboration with other nations, furthering the development of regional and global aviation safety.
As the ICAO gathers for its 42nd Assembly themed “Safe Skies, Sustainable Future,” advocates assert that it is imperative for ICAO to formally include Taiwan. With full participation, Taiwan is poised to share its expertise and contribute significantly to ICAO’s mission of fostering safer skies and a more sustainable aviation future.