UAE achieves milestone in aviation certification

May 01, 2026 / 3:01 PM

Sharjah24/WAM: The General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) has issued a Supplemental Type Certificate (STC) to Emirates Engineering, making it the first UAE-based entity to receive this certification. The step marks a significant advancement in the country’s aviation regulatory capabilities.

Strengthening advanced airworthiness functions

With this milestone, the GCAA joins a select group of global aviation authorities capable of issuing STCs—an advanced airworthiness function that enables certified modifications to aircraft, systems, and components in line with international safety standards.

Boosting national engineering capabilities

The achievement reflects the UAE’s expanding engineering ecosystem and the GCAA’s commitment to strengthening national expertise, supporting local industry, and maintaining the highest levels of aviation safety and compliance.

Industry leaders highlight significance

Eng. Aqeel Al Zarooni, Assistant Director-General for Aviation Safety Affairs at the GCAA, said the move demonstrates the maturity of the UAE’s regulatory framework and the technical capability of local design organisations. Ahmed Safa, Head of Engineering and MRO at Emirates, described it as a key milestone showcasing Emirates Engineering’s design and aircraft modification capabilities.

Building on earlier approvals

The certification follows the granting of Design Organisation Approval (DOA) STC privileges to Emirates in late 2025, the first such approval for a UAE-based organisation. The GCAA continues to enhance oversight, safety, and regulatory innovation across the aviation sector.