Azerbaijan eyes hosting major aviation event after high-level talks in Bern

A delegation led by Elmin Mammadov, Deputy Minister of Digital Development and Transport of Azerbaijan, held high-level discussions in Bern, Switzerland, with Juan Carlos Salazar, the Secretary General of the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO).

The meeting focused on a range of strategic issues, with particular emphasis on the ongoing investigation into the tragic crash of an Azerbaijan Airlines Embraer 190 aircraft on December 25, 2024, Caliber.Az reports, citing the ministry.

The Azerbaijani side expressed its appreciation for ICAO's consistent support throughout the investigative process and underscored the critical importance of ensuring that forensic examinations are conducted by a qualified and independent expert body.

ICAO officials reiterated that adherence to the principles outlined in Annex 13 of the Chicago Convention — which mandates impartial and comprehensive accident investigations — remains a cornerstone of international aviation safety. The organization reaffirmed its readiness to assist member states in upholding global aviation safety standards.

In addition to safety matters, the two sides discussed prospects for Azerbaijan to host an international ICAO event in the 2026–2027 timeframe. If confirmed, the event would mark a notable recognition of Azerbaijan’s growing role in the global aviation community.

Further discussions explored avenues for deepening institutional collaboration between ICAO and Azerbaijan’s State Civil Aviation Agency, operating under the Ministry of Digital Development and Transport. Areas of prospective cooperation include joint initiatives, capacity-building projects, and the development of specialized training programs aimed at enhancing the expertise of Azerbaijani aviation professionals.

By Vafa Guliyeva