An aircraft accident is an unexpected and usually catastrophic event. Concern for persons who have suffered distress and loss as the result of aircraft accidents has led to increased efforts within the aviation industry to establish means by which the needs of victims and their families can be addressed in a timely fashion.
In support of this, a special session took place during the 13th ICAO Air Navigation Conference to review the development and implementation of the relevant ICAO instruments and documents, and regulations, policies and plans of States and other international organizations.
“ICAO is attuned to the needs of families and victims of aircraft accidents, and stands ready to continue working with the aviation community and family associations towards the progress of this subject of utmost importance,” declared the President of the ICAO Council, Dr. Olumuyiwa Benard Aliu, in his remarks to the participants, which included representatives of Argentina, Australia, Brazil, China, France, Italy, the Netherlands, Malaysia, Spain, the United States, Airports Council International, the International Air Transport Association (IATA), and the Air Crash Victims’ Families’ Federation International.
The Session was a crucial opportunity to enhance the momentum towards the full implementation of assistance to aircraft accident victims and their families throughout the international civil aviation network.
