Minister of Transport opens ICAO facilitation conference /FALC 2025/

DOHA, April 14 (QNA) Under the patronage of His Excellency Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al-Thani, the ICAO Facilitation Conference (FALC 2025) was inaugurated on Monday by His Excellency Minister of Transport Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdullah bin Mohammed Al-Thani. The event, running until April 17, brings together over 120 ministers, heads of civil aviation authorities, and experts from 190 countries. The conference provides a global platform to address advancements in air transport facilitation and enhance global air travel efficiency.
Hosted by Qatar and organized by the General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA), FALC 2025 is held under the theme “Facilitating the Future of Air Transport: Collaboration, Efficiency, Inclusivity.” The conference offers stakeholders the opportunity to explore strategies to enhance air transport systems globally. It aims to develop a facilitation strategy that strengthens the adaptability of civil aviation to technological advancements and regulatory shifts.
In his opening remarks, Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdullah Al-Thani welcomed the attendees, stressing the importance of addressing aviation sector challenges, including operational flexibility, regulatory changes, and digital transformation. The minister also emphasized Qatar’s investment in world-class aviation infrastructure, highlighting its role in ensuring seamless global connectivity.
Sheikh Mohammed praised Hamad International Airport (HIA) and Qatar Airways for their world-class services. HIA, winner of numerous global awards, epitomizes Qatar’s commitment to providing an exceptional passenger experience. Qatar Airways, recognized as the world’s best airline, has integrated advanced passenger data systems that significantly reduce wait times and improve security screening procedures. These advancements make Qatar Airways a key partner in global facilitation efforts alongside the International Air Transport Association (IATA).
Sheikh Mohammed reiterated Qatar’s commitment to air transport facilitation, security, and operational efficiency, aligning with the Qatar National Vision 2030. This vision aims to position Qatar as a global transport hub through strategic investments and advanced technology.
Mohamed bin Faleh Al Hajri, In Charge of Managing the Qatar Civil Aviation Authority (QCAA), welcomed international delegates, acknowledging Qatar’s leadership in global aviation. He highlighted Qatar’s infrastructure, intellectual leadership, and active participation in ICAO initiatives, contributing to global aviation standards. Al Hajri emphasized that collaboration among nations is essential to address operational challenges and leverage technological advancements in air transport.
Al Hajri also emphasized the significance of the conference’s theme, stating that efficiency, inclusivity, and resilience are essential for improving global air transport. He noted that international cooperation is crucial for strengthening the aviation sector’s role in the global economy. The conference offers a chance for countries to engage in open dialogue, share best practices, and develop solutions to enhance global facilitation frameworks.
The conference features sessions on critical issues, including cargo release clearance, travel document integrity, border control, combating human trafficking, and providing assistance to aircraft accident victims. These sessions aim to identify proactive solutions to improve air transport systems, streamline processes, and increase operational efficiency.
A key component of the conference is the High-Level Ministerial Segment, where ministers will meet to discuss the future of air transport facilitation. During this segment, a joint ministerial declaration will be announced, marking a unified approach to improving international air transport. The declaration will support future initiatives and set the course for further progress in global aviation standards.
Al Hajri also discussed the value of the conference sessions, which will focus on vital topics for air transport development. He stressed that fostering international cooperation is essential to strengthening the resilience of the global aviation system. As the industry undergoes rapid transformation, collaboration is necessary to tackle emerging challenges and seize new opportunities.
The conference will address the role of innovation in air transport facilitation. Topics such as automation in cargo release, passenger processing, and border control will be explored to demonstrate how technology can reduce wait times, improve security, and enhance the overall passenger experience. Innovations are key to creating efficient, responsive, and secure air transport systems.
Accompanying the conference is an exhibition featuring organizations and companies from the aviation sector, offering an opportunity to showcase the latest technologies in air transport facilitation. The exhibition will highlight new systems and procedures that are transforming the industry.
The conference will culminate with the adoption of the Doha Declaration on Facilitation of International Air Transport. This declaration will reaffirm the importance of collaboration in air transport facilitation and highlight shared commitments to ensuring safe, efficient, and secure international mobility. The Doha Declaration will serve as a roadmap for advancing air transport systems, improving global connectivity, and strengthening the aviation sector’s role in the global economy.
Throughout the conference, delegates will engage in productive discussions, share experiences, and develop strategies to enhance global air transport facilitation. This event provides an unparalleled opportunity to contribute to the future of international aviation while addressing the challenges of today’s rapidly changing world.
With Qatar at the forefront of these discussions, FALC 2025 underscores the country’s pivotal role in advancing air transport facilitation. By hosting this significant event, Qatar reaffirms its position as a leader in civil aviation, committed to shaping the future of international air transport and ensuring continued progress in global connectivity.