Lilshira
UAE names Serco first GCAA‑certified aerodrome training provider
Serco has been approved as the United Arab Emirates' first GCAA‑certified aerodrome training provider under the new national framework, announced on 2 November 2026 and applying to all Aerodrome Rescue and Firefighting Services personnel across the UAE.
Dans cet article
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L’essentiel
- What changes
- Serco is now the first GCAA‑certified aerodrome training provider under the new UAE framework
- Timing
- Announced November 2 2026, effective upon certification
- Who is affected
- ARFFS operational, supervisory and managerial staff in the United Arab Emirates
Les détails
- Annoncé par
- General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA)
- Nouvelle règle
- Serco may deliver training and competency assessments for ARFFS personnel under the newly introduced competency‑based framework.
New national framework for ARFFS training
The General Civil Aviation Authority introduced a comprehensive, competency‑based system to train and evaluate Aerodrome Rescue and Firefighting Services (ARFFS) professionals. The framework standardises training practices across the aviation sector, ensuring that staff possess the technical knowledge, practical skills and operational expertise required to meet aerodrome safety regulations.
- Establishes clear regulatory requirements for all ARFFS roles
- Aligns training with internationally recognised safety standards
- Creates a unified assessment process for competency verification
Serco awarded first certification
Serco has become the inaugural provider to receive GCAA certification under the new framework. The company is authorised to offer specialised training programmes and competency assessments for operational, supervisory and managerial ARFFS staff, ensuring they meet the nationally approved standards.
- Covers operational fire‑fighting personnel
- Includes supervisory staff responsible for team coordination
- Extends to managerial positions overseeing emergency response
Implications for aviation safety
The certification reinforces the UAE's commitment to aviation safety by linking regulatory oversight with specialised training. It enhances emergency preparedness at airports, supports the sector’s rapid expansion and helps maintain high levels of operational reliability and efficiency throughout the national aviation network.
- Improves readiness of fire and rescue teams at all UAE airports
- Supports sustainable development of national aviation competencies
- Contributes to higher safety performance metrics across the sector
Ce que cela change pour les voyageurs
Préparation du voyage
- Existing flight itineraries remain unchanged; no schedule adjustments are required.
- Airport emergency services continue operating as before, with no impact on passenger check‑in or boarding times.
Coût et documents
- No additional fees are imposed on passengers as a result of the certification.
- Travelers are not required to provide new documents or paperwork related to the training change.
Ce que vous devez faire
- No action is needed; continue following standard airport procedures.
- Monitor airline and airport communications for any operational updates.
Qui est concerné
-
ARFFS operational staff
They are now required to receive training from the GCAA‑certified provider Serco.
À faire Attend competency‑based training programmes delivered by Serco.
-
ARFFS supervisory staff
The new framework includes supervisory personnel in its certification scope.
À faire Complete the prescribed supervisory training and assessment through Serco.
-
ARFFS managerial staff
Management positions are covered by the competency‑based standards.
À faire Participate in Serco‑provided managerial qualification courses.
-
UAE airports employing ARFFS teams
Airports must ensure their fire and rescue crews are trained under the certified system.
À faire Verify that all ARFFS personnel are enrolled in Serco’s certified programmes.
Questions fréquentes
What is the new GCAA aerodrome training framework?
The new framework is a competency‑based system introduced by the GCAA to standardise training and assessment for Aerodrome Rescue and Firefighting Services personnel across the UAE.
Who is the first GCAA‑certified aerodrome training provider?
Serco has been named the first provider certified by the GCAA under the new national framework for aerodrome training.
Which ARFFS staff can be trained by Serco under the certification?
Serco is authorised to train operational fire‑fighters, supervisory crew members and managerial personnel involved in aerodrome rescue and firefighting services.
Will the certification affect airline passengers in the UAE?
No, the certification concerns training of fire and rescue staff and does not change passenger procedures, ticketing or flight schedules.
When did Serco receive the GCAA certification?
Serco’s certification was announced on 2 November 2026 as the first under the new national framework.
How does the new framework improve aviation safety?
By ensuring all ARFFS personnel meet uniform, competency‑based standards, the framework raises emergency preparedness, aligns with international safety norms and supports the UAE’s expanding aviation sector.
