28 Jun 2011 , Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
The Gulf Centre for Aviation Studies (GCAS) has signed an agreement with the International Air Transport Association (IATA) to be the exclusive provider for the association’s courses in the region. The new courses will allow delegates from the aviation industry to enroll in world-class training programs without travelling out of the region, saving time and costs for airports and airlines

The newly introduced courses will cover a wide range of topics including airlines, airport, cargo, management, regulatory, and Safety and Security, which are aimed at extending knowledge and sharpening skills to improve the human performance throughout the operation at the airport and the aviation industry. IATA courses cover both vocational and technical training needs, offering a wide range of specialized content to achieve professional goals in a cost effective manner. IATA caters to the need of candidates starting a career in aviation, or seeking advanced management training at managerial levels.

One key program delivered now at GCAS is the Safety Audit for Ground Operations (ISAGO), which was adopted by IATA to improve safety and cut airline costs by drastically reducing ground accidents and injuries. The ISAGO program is an audit system conducted in a standardized and consistent manner, using internationally recognized quality auditing principles.

Commenting on this announcement, Dr. Othman Al Khouri, Deputy General Manager of GCAS, said:

“Becoming the exclusive provider of world class IATA courses in the UAE, in addition to becoming the first TRAINAIR Plus certified centre in the world last month, puts GCAS on track to becoming the leading aviation training centre in the region. We look forward to welcoming delegates from airports and airlines across the Middle East to these new and unique courses to further advance the skills of the aviation and airport industry in the region.”

IATA represents 238 member airlines from over 120 countries that carry 93% of the world's scheduled international air traffic. The organization provides a powerful, unified and experienced voice to support and promote its member airlines' operations and aspirations.

For more information on training courses schedule please visit: www.gcas.ae