The Jamaica Civil Aviation Authority Celebrates 25 Years

NAME OF FEATURE | THE GLEANER | SUNDAY, MAY 2, 2021 18 JAMAICA CIVIL AVIATION AUTHORITY 25TH ANNIVERSARY F T I T IS with immense pride and joy that we celebrate the 25th anniversary of the Jamaica Civil Aviation Authority (JCAA), and con- currently, the 75th anniversary of Jamaican aviation. The great strides made by the JCAA in spearhead- ing aviation excellence, since its official founding on May 6, 1996, heralds a mammoth achievement that deserves to be commended and celebrated. However, it is es- sential that we also highlight that the bedrock of safe industry reg- ulation and air navigation services provision by Jamaica, commenced nearly three-quarters of a century ago with the establishment of the Civil Aviation Department on April 1, 1947. The 25th-anniversary theme, ‘25 Strong, 75 Years Along’, per- fectly encapsulates the role of the JCAA in Jamaica’s rich avi- ation history. As we recognise these two milestones, I would like to commend the past and present members of the author- ity for the pivotal role their con- tributions to Jamaica’s aviation industry has played and contin- ues to play in national social and economic development. The full extent of the work done by aviation professionals is often not readily recognised or under- stood by the public; however, its importance to the economy of any country is invaluable. In its role as the regulatory body and air navigation services provider for Jamaica’s air transport industry, the JCAA ensures the adoption of mission-critical international avia- tion standards; provides effective industry safety and security over- sight; provides reliable, safe and expeditious air navigation services; and promotes the development of air transport, while advancing Jamaica’s aviation, economic, so- cial, international relations and other interests. Furthermore, the JCAA’s continued excellence in the performance of these responsibili- ties plays a critical role in Jamaica’s achievement of its Vision 2030 goals. I am honoured for the opportu- nity to serve alongside my fellow, dedicated members of the JCAA’s board of directors, as well as the JCAA’s team members – a group of professionals who have com- mitted their time, effort, and talent to the advancement of Jamaica’s aviation industry. Your service, es- pecially during the current period of challenges, has helped to buttress Jamaica’s economic stability and maintain normalcy, when all else seems unstable. I invite all Jamaicans to join me in congratulating the professionals of the JCAA on 25 years of remarkable service. Your efforts towards cre- ating a safe and efficient air trans- portation system for all Jamaicans is greatly appreciated. LLOYD POMMELLS, OD, JP JCAA Chairman Efforts at creating safe air transport system greatly appreciated “ I invite all Jamaicans to join me in congratulating the professionals of the JCAA on 25 years of remarkable service. Your efforts towards creating a safe and efficient air transportation system for all Jamaicans is greatly appreciated. 6