OPINION:
The 42nd Session of the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) Assembly will take place from Sept. 23 to Oct. 3 in Montreal. The
193 member states and a large number of international organizations are invited, and together they establish the worldwide policy of the organization for the upcoming triennium.
Taiwan, however, is barred from the event. This is regrettable, as the exclusion poses risks to international aviation.
Taiwan is a key air traffic hub connecting Northeast and Southeast Asia. In 2024, Taiwan had eight civil aviation operators and 14 general aviation operators, with a total of 295 airworthy civilian aircraft. In addition, the Taipei Flight Information Region (Taipei
FIR) provided air traffic control services to over 1.64 million flights in 2024, marking a 15% increase over 2023.
Taiwan is a major air transportation hub linking Asia, Europe and North America.
The ICAO is committed to closely collaborate in upholding the highest international standards while enhancing accessibility and
environmental sustainability in aviation. Responding to the climate emergency in particular will require unprecedented levels of global
cooperation and commitment.
For the sake of passenger safety, international security and climate emergency, Taiwan must be brought into the ICAO fold.
KENT WANG
Advisory commissioner for the Overseas Community Affairs Council, Republic of China (Taiwan) in the United States
Potomac Falls, Virginia
Please read our comment policy before commenting.