The Middle East aviation sector continues to demonstrate remarkable resilience in the face of ongoing geopolitical challenges. This resilience was highlighted during the recent Aviation Future Week in Dubai by Abdul Wahab Teffaha, Secretary-General of the Arab Air Carriers Organisation (AACO), who emphasised the sector’s critical role in connecting economies, creating jobs, and fostering growth despite the current instability.
Historically, the aviation industry in the Middle East has faced numerous crises, from conflicts to economic sanctions. However, as Teffaha pointed out, the current geopolitical issues, notably the ongoing conflict between certain regions and their neighboring areas, are largely localized. “The tension, which started a year ago, is limited to certain areas, and we hope it remains contained. Our mission is to build bridges, not break them,” he stated.
Despite the adverse effects of such conflicts, the AACO continues to support Arab airlines by advocating for collaboration and strategic growth. Airline executives, such as Royal Jordanian’s CEO Samer Majali, have echoed this sentiment, recognising the toll that regional violence takes on both the aviation and tourism sectors. Majali has previously commented on how tourism dips in conflict zones, but the broader Middle East still attracts visitors.
The Middle East aviation sector’s ability to recover from past geopolitical disruptions serves as a testament to its resilience. From the Gulf War to the Arab Spring, airlines in the region have adapted, often by diversifying routes or boosting safety measures. Industry experts suggest that airlines operating in the Middle East are well-versed in managing crises, continuously enhancing their operational flexibility.
As AACO continues to provide strategic guidance to Arab airlines, industry insiders remain cautiously optimistic. Teffaha highlighted that the upcoming AACO annual conference in Jordan signifies the organisation’s commitment to moving forward, even amidst regional instability. He also noted that other parts of the region, such as Egypt’s northern areas, remain largely unaffected and open for tourism.
