Aviation development refers to a wide range of infrastructure, human resources, training, and related capacity-building activities. The ultimate goal of these efforts is to realize a safe and efficient air transport foundation in a given State, one which is consistent with ICAO’s Standards and Recommended Practices (SARPs) and Strategic Objectives for the global air transport network.

Once ICAO-compliant air transport connectivity is established, it begins to support expanded tourism and many other local and regional socio-economic development goals for States and Regions. Opportunities for local citizens, businesses and producers to access foreign supplies and markets begin to multiply significantly, and further important benefits for governments and societies are realized through improvements in medical transport, emergency response and cultural exchange.

Recognizing the importance of aviation development to ICAO’s global mandate and the new UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), the Organization has begun to more actively engage States and donor/development stakeholders and to map its work against SDG deliverables. We do so not only by serving an essential coordinating role, but also by providing States with the planning and monitoring tools they need to develop practical and effective business cases supporting dependable socio-economic returns on investment.