Serco certified by GCAA as UAE’s first Aerodrome Rescue and Firefighting training provider

The General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) has certified Serco as the first training provider under the UAE’s new national regulatory framework for the certification of aerodrome training service providers, marking a significant milestone in the GCAA’s continued efforts to strengthen aviation safety, enhance regulatory oversight and advance the competency and operational readiness of Aerodrome Rescue and Firefighting Services (ARFFS) personnel across the UAE.

The new regulatory framework establishes an integrated competency-based approach to the training and assessment of ARFFS personnel, supporting consistent training standards and ensuring that professional competencies remain aligned with operational responsibilities and aerodrome safety requirements.

Under the certification, Serco is authorised to deliver training and competency assessment programmes for ARFFS personnel at operational, supervisory and managerial levels, in accordance with the regulatory requirements approved by the GCAA. The certification builds on Serco’s extensive experience in aviation and emergency services, including the delivery of specialist fire and rescue services, training and operational support across the region.

How the regulations strengthen training and emergency response within the UAE’s aviation sector

Eng. Aqeel Al Zarouni, Assistant Director General – Aviation Safety Affairs at GCAA, said: “The certification of the first training provider under the new regulatory framework marks an important milestone in strengthening the competency and readiness of Aerodrome Rescue and Firefighting Services personnel across the UAE through a training and qualification system founded on clear regulatory requirements and advanced professional and operational standards.

The framework further strengthens the integration between regulatory oversight, specialised training and operational readiness, contributing to the highest levels of safety and response effectiveness while supporting the sustainability of national competencies capable of keeping pace with the continued evolution of the aviation sector and its future requirements.”

The certification forms part of the GCAA’s continued efforts to develop regulatory and training frameworks that support the aviation safety system and enhance the readiness and competency of specialised personnel in line with recognised standards and best practices. It also represents a further step within an integrated approach to developing national capabilities, supporting the rapid growth of the UAE aviation sector while sustaining high levels of safety and operational efficiency.

Hana Abu Kharmeh, General Manager, Serco Middle East, said: “This certification is an important milestone for Serco and reflects the GCAA’s continued leadership in strengthening aviation safety and raising standards across the UAE. We are proud to be the first training provider certified under this new regulatory framework and to bring Serco’s extensive fire and rescue training expertise to support its implementation.

Highly skilled fire and rescue teams play a critical role in keeping airports, passengers and communities safe. We look forward to continuing to work closely with the GCAA and our partners to develop these vital capabilities and support the continued advancement of the UAE’s aviation sector.”