Frequently Asked Questions

 

The following Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) are provided to help the public and media better understand the scope and substance of ICAO’s activities.

Standards and rule making topics

1. ​How does ICAO develop Standards and Recommended Practices for International Civil Aviation?
2. ​How long does it take for States to develop and agree on a new civil aviation Standard through ICAO?
3. ​What is the difference between the terms ‘Adopted’, ‘effective’ and ‘applicable’, as regards ICAO Standards and Recommended Practices?

Customer service topics

1. ​If I receive poor service from my airline or airport, can ICAO help with my complaint?
2. What do I need to know before buying or operating a “drone” (unmanned aircraft)?

Convention compliance and dispute topics

1. ​If my State is being negligent in its responsibilities under the Chicago Convention, can ICAO reprimand or penalize it in some manner?
2. Which specific Chicago Convention Articles apply when a State doesn’t follow ICAO Standards?
3. ​Can States sanction other States through ICAO?

Audit related

1. ​What does ICAO audit?
2. ​What ramifications may arise if a State experiences poor ICAO audit results?

Flight Routes and Risks

1. ​​Does ICAO approve world flight routes? If not, how are these agreed?
2. ​​Why does ICAO permit civilian aircraft to fly routes which can carry them through conflict zones or other dangerous areas?
3. ​​What can ICAO do to prevent States from conducting missile tests or other activities which may endanger civilian air traffic?

 Accident Investigation

1. ​How is it decided which States will participate in an aircraft Accident Investigation?
2. ​​What are a State’s reporting obligations during and after an aircraft accident investigation?