Kuwait and UK Hold Talks to Expand Aviation Cooperation
Aviation cooperation between Kuwait and the United Kingdom is set to advance following high-level discussions focused on civil aviation, infrastructure development, and passenger services.
Sheikh Hamoud Mubarak Al-Hamoud Al-Sabah, Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Directorate General of Civil Aviation, met with Qudsi Rashid, Ambassador of the UK and Northern Ireland, to explore opportunities for closer collaboration across the aviation sector.
The discussions centred on the exchange of technical expertise, strengthening bilateral cooperation, and supporting the development of air transport links between the two countries. Both sides underlined the importance of continued coordination to facilitate passenger movement while maintaining safety standards and operational efficiency.
Focus on expertise and sector development
According to KUNA, the talks highlighted the value of partnerships that advance shared objectives and support long-term development in the aviation sector. The meeting reflects Kuwait’s broader efforts to modernise its aviation framework by drawing on international experience, particularly from established aviation markets such as the UK.
Earlier this month, Sheikh Hamoud also held talks with Iain McNicol, the UK’s Trade Commissioner to Kuwait, to review additional avenues for cooperation in civil aviation. These discussions covered air traffic control training, infrastructure and operational services, and the expansion of public-private partnerships linked to strategic projects at Kuwait International Airport.
The DGCA noted that these engagements are part of Kuwait’s efforts to leverage British expertise to deliver civil aviation projects that support capacity growth and service development.
Airline cooperation and traffic growth
Collaboration has also progressed at the airline and industrial levels. In May, Kuwait Airways and Rolls-Royce Holdings agreed to deepen cooperation on aircraft engine systems to support the airline’s operational and maintenance objectives.
Air traffic between Kuwait and the UK has also increased. In February, Kuwait Airways expanded its Kuwait-London service to 16 weekly flights, reflecting continued demand across business, tourism, and family travel segments.
Broader bilateral engagement
Aviation cooperation forms part of the broader bilateral engagement between Kuwait and the UK. In July, UK Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs David Lammy visited Kuwait and met with Sheikh Sabah Al-Khaled Al-Hamad Al-Sabah to discuss strengthening ties across trade, investment, business, and security.
Aviation continues to support connectivity, economic exchange, and long-term cooperation between the two countries.
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