KUWAIT CITY, Aug 3: The newly enacted Civil Aviation Law represents a historic juncture for Kuwait’s aviation sector, marking a major step toward aligning national regulations and operations with international standards and practices, said Sheikh Humoud Mubarak Al-Humoud Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, President of the Public Authority for Civil Aviation (PACA), on Sunday.

In a statement to Kuwait News Agency (KUNA), Sheikh Humoud welcomed the issuance of Decree Law No. 85 of 2025, which officially transforms the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) into the Public Authority for Civil Aviation. The move, he said, is in full compliance with the requirements of the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) and other regional aviation bodies.

President of Public Authority for Civil Aviation, Sheikh Hamoud Mubarak Al-Hamoud Al-Jaber Al-Sabah

“This law is a turning point for Kuwait’s civil aviation sector,” Sheikh Humoud stated. “It will enhance the sector’s independence, modernize its structure, and ensure the adoption of global best practices in administration and oversight.”

The new legislation comes 65 years after the enactment of Laws No. 20 and No. 27 of 1960, which initially regulated civil aviation operations and aircraft accident procedures in Kuwait. The updated legal framework, published in the official gazette Kuwait Today, reflects the country’s long-standing efforts to modernize its air transport infrastructure in line with global developments.

Sheikh Humoud emphasized that the new law reinforces PACA’s ability to operate with transparency and autonomy while maintaining oversight responsibilities critical to national interests. He noted that the Authority remains committed to working following the highest international standards to fulfill the strategic vision of Kuwait’s leadership.

“This achievement is not only legislative — it is part of a broader national strategy to support sustainable development,” he said. “It strengthens Kuwait’s civil aviation capabilities and contributes to the country’s international obligations under ICAO.”

The PACA chief also pointed out that the legislation enables the Authority to efficiently regulate and supervise aviation operations at Kuwait International Airport and beyond. It supports ongoing efforts to serve passengers, airlines, and airport stakeholders, while aligning with the Council of Ministers’ broader strategy to diversify the national economy and reduce reliance on oil revenues.

He further stressed the importance of continued development across all civil aviation facilities to enhance the passenger experience and position Kuwait International Airport among the world’s leading aviation hubs.

On this occasion, Sheikh Humoud expressed his heartfelt appreciation to His Highness the Amir Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, His Highness the Crown Prince Sheikh Sabah Khaled Al-Hamad Al-Sabah, His Highness Sheikh Ahmed Abdullah Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah, the Prime Minister, and the Council of Ministers for their support in realizing this important achievement.