The UAE General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) has introduced its Golden Package for Registering and Operating Private and Business Aircraft.

The initiative, led by Eng. Aqeel Al Zarouni, aims to streamline processes and enhance operational flexibility, and is intended to reinforce the UAE's status in global aviation.

The Golden Package includes a review of over 24 services related to the operation and registration of private aircraft in the country, and reduces the issuance time for an Air Operator Certificate from two years to 90 days. New provisions also allow for Air Operating Authorizations to be completed in as little as 60 days.

The Golden Package aims to initiate a new growth phase for private aviation, introducing measures such as the Business Aviation Advisory Council to promote general aviation growth.

A 'one-stop shop' platform will also consolidate all processes related to AOCs and AOAs, along with the introduction of a single point of contact 'Dedicated Ambassador' for seamless support. It aims to simplify administrative tasks, boost efficiency and deliver a seamless, user-friendly experience for operators and aircraft owners.

The Golden Package also includes 'Registration Code Personalisation', allowing private aircraft owners to select a unique registration code for their aircraft.

Additional advancements introduced in the package include permitting 100% ownership rights for aircraft operators and the ability to operate under a commercial licence from a UAE free zone. The initiative also allows for independent hiring of flight crews, enabling operators to adapt quickly to changing needs.

The package aims to simplify private aircraft registration and operations with the following key measures:

- No age limit: Flexibility in registering aircraft of any age, aligned with regulatory standards.

- Streamlined transfers: Quick ownership and registration processes for operational continuity.

- Maintenance enhancements: Improved access to maintenance facilities and expedited Airworthiness Review Certificate processes.

- Simplified licensing: Elimination of pilot exams for licence validation and rapid transfer of foreign licences.

Eng. Al Zarouni concluded that the comprehensive development of these initiatives resulted from extensive studies and stakeholder consultations, ensuring a balance between process simplification and maintaining the UAE’s high standards of safety and operational excellence in aviation.