The UAE General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) has announced a significant development in air transport between the UAE and Canada, marking a key milestone following successful bilateral Air Services Agreement (ASA) negotiations.
The discussions, which took place at the ICAO Air Services Negotiation Event 2025 (ICAN2025) in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic, have paved the way for enhanced connectivity between the two nations.
In a major development, both parties have agreed to grant the Emirates national carriers additional weekly frequencies to destinations west of the Ontario-Manitoba border.
The agreement also includes the application of full fifth-freedom rights, enabling unrestricted operations for all-cargo flights between the countries. This move is expected to significantly boost air freight and connectivity between the two countries.
Saif Mohammed Al Suwaidi Director General GCAA UAE
“This achievement reflects the strength and depth of the longstanding aviation relationship between the two countries, and underscores the GCAA’s commitment to developing frameworks of international cooperation that meet the evolving needs of the air transport sector. These negotiations highlight the importance of flexibility and coordination between both parties, enabling UAE national carriers to operate additional flights that address growing passenger demand and support the growth of tourism and trade between the two countries.”
“This milestone also demonstrates the GCAA’s ongoing commitment to enhancing air connectivity and developing aviation infrastructure and services, further consolidating the UAE’s position as a global hub for civil aviation,” Al Suwaidi further added.
According to the statement, this move marks a significant advancement for UAE national carriers, highlighting the growing strength of the UAE-Canada partnership. It enhances air connectivity between the two nations, while also contributing to economic growth and laying the foundation for further collaboration in civil aviation in the years ahead.
