H.H. Sheikh Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, the Crown Prince and Deputy Ruler of Sharjah, officially opened the Sharjah Airport Professional Training Centre on Wednesday morning. This centre is part of a broader initiative aimed at bolstering the civil aviation sector in the UAE, contributing significantly to its growth.

During the inauguration, Sheikh Khaled bin Issam Al Qasimi, who serves as the Chairman of the Department of Civil Aviation and the Sharjah Airport Professional Training Centre, welcomed the Crown Prince and the attending guests. He highlighted that the opening of the centre reflects the department’s dedication to enhancing the civil aviation system, improving the skills of employees in the sector, and increasing the representation of Emiratis in the workforce.

Sheikh Khaled emphasized Sharjah’s ongoing success in various fields, particularly aviation, in alignment with the ambitious goals set forth by the UAE leadership. He noted the remarkable advancements the country has made in this crucial sector, establishing itself as a global aviation hub through significant investments in infrastructure and technology. Furthermore, he underscored the UAE’s international collaborations and commitment to sustainability, particularly in utilizing advanced technologies to minimize the aviation industry’s environmental impact.

The Crown Prince and guests observed a presentation detailing the establishment of the Sharjah Airport Professional Training Centre, its services, and the training programs it offers. This centre aims to train certified air traffic controllers and develop a skilled local workforce prepared for the aviation industry, utilizing the latest programs and technologies.

Following the presentation, the Crown Prince toured the facility, which is specifically designed for professional training and holds accreditation from the UAE General Civil Aviation Authority. He explored various specialized classrooms, simulators, a library, and a café within the centre. The Crown Prince was informed about the building’s modern specifications and the advanced technology used in its equipment that supports the aviation sector.

He received insights into the centre’s specialized training courses, which include air traffic controller training and aviation security, all designed to enhance participants’ skills and knowledge. The facility boasts a 3D simulation system that replicates scenarios in air traffic control towers, enabling users to communicate wirelessly with pilots and ground staff while training vehicle operators and airport ground crew with different types of aircraft.

Additionally, the Crown Prince met Maryam Al Hammadi, the UAE’s first female air traffic controller, who graduated from the centre and currently works at the Sharjah Civil Aviation Department. She provided an explanation of the operations within air traffic control towers, including aircraft communication and air traffic management.

The Crown Prince also visited the centre’s classrooms, which can accommodate over 100 students, and interacted with students from both local and international backgrounds. He learned about the training programs offered to airport police and customs officials, which focus on airport security and the use of advanced detection devices.

The inauguration event was attended by several dignitaries, including Sheikh Khaled bin Abdullah Al Qasimi, the Chairman of the Sharjah Ports, Customs, and Free Zones Authority, Sheikh Faisal bin Saud Al Qasimi, the Director of Sharjah International Airport Authority, and other senior officials from the aviation sector.