CAASL assumes chairmanship of Cooperative Aviation Security Program – Asia Pacific

• Concludes 21st CASP-AP Steering Committee Meeting; event reinforces regional aviation security cooperation

The Civil Aviation Authority of Sri Lanka (CAASL) successfully inaugurated the 21st Steering Committee Meeting (SCM) of the Cooperative Aviation Security Program – Asia Pacific (CASP-AP) on 23 June 2026 in Negombo, Sri Lanka, bringing together aviation security leaders, policymakers, and technical experts from across the Asia-Pacific region.

A key highlight of the Opening Ceremony was the official transfer of the CASP-AP Chairmanship from Singapore to Sri Lanka. During the ceremony, Captain Daminda Rambukwella, Director General of Civil Aviation and Chief Executive Officer of the Civil Aviation Authority of Sri Lanka, assumed the Chairmanship of CASP-AP for the 2026–2027 term. This significant milestone reflects the confidence placed in Sri Lanka’s leadership within the regional aviation security community and underscores the country›s growing role in advancing aviation security cooperation across the Asia-Pacific region.

Addressing the gathering, Captain Daminda Rambukwella reaffirmed Sri Lanka’s commitment to maintaining the highest standards of aviation security and highlighted the importance of collaboration, innovation, and knowledge-sharing in responding to evolving security challenges. He emphasised that strong regional partnerships remain essential to ensuring the safety, security, and resilience of the global aviation system.

The 21st CASP-AP Steering Committee Meeting has attracted more than 70 delegates representing 22 Member States and participating States, including the United States of America, Australia, New Zealand, Malaysia, Singapore, Hong Kong (China), Viet Nam, and several South Asian countries, together with representatives from across the Asia-Pacific region. The meeting also welcomed representatives from the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO), including officials from the ICAO Asia and Pacific Regional Office in Bangkok, Thailand, and ICAO Headquarters in Montreal, Canada, together with senior officials of the Civil Aviation Authority of Sri Lanka (CAASL) and representatives of regional aviation organisations. The strong international participation underscores the importance of regional collaboration and collective efforts to strengthen aviation security across the Asia-Pacific region.

ICAO Asia and Pacific Office Regional Director Tao Ma commended Sri Lanka for its continued commitment to strengthening aviation security and fostering regional cooperation. He emphasised the importance of collaborative efforts among Member States in addressing evolving aviation security challenges and acknowledged the valuable contribution of CASP-AP in enhancing aviation security capabilities across the Asia-Pacific region. He also congratulated Sri Lanka on assuming the CASP-AP Chairmanship and expressed confidence in the country›s leadership in advancing the program›s objectives during its tenure.

As the principal decision-making body of CASP-AP, the Steering Committee Meeting plays a vital role in reviewing program activities, setting strategic priorities, promoting capacity-building initiatives, and enhancing collaboration among Member States. The forum provides an important opportunity for stakeholders to address emerging aviation security challenges, exchange best practices, and support the effective implementation of international aviation security standards and recommended practices.

The Opening Ceremony was attended by Ports and Civil Aviation Minister Aruna Karunathilake, Deputy Minister Eng. Janith Kodithuwakku, Ministry Secretary W.W.S. Managala, Civil Aviation Authority of Sri Lanka Chairman Sunil Jayaratne, Director General and CEO Captain Daminda Rambukwella, ICAO Asia and Pacific Office Regional Director Tao Ma, and representatives Lita Lee, Tony Blackiston, Wee Sihui Glory, Civil Aviation Authority  of Singapore Acting Deputy Director-General and CASP-AP outgoing Chair together with distinguished delegates representing CASP-AP Member States, participating States, and partner organisations.

The Steering Committee Meeting will review the progress of CASP-AP activities, discuss strategic priorities, evaluate ongoing projects, and identify future initiatives aimed at further strengthening aviation security throughout the Asia-Pacific region. The deliberations will facilitate the exchange of experiences, best practices, and technical expertise among participating States and organisations.

The first day of the meeting concluded successfully with productive discussions and active participation from delegates, reaffirming the collective commitment of CASP-AP Member States to maintaining robust and effective aviation security frameworks throughout the region.

As the host State and newly appointed Chair of CASP-AP, Sri Lanka remains committed to working closely with ICAO, CASP-AP Member States, and international partners to promote a safe, secure, and sustainable aviation environment across the Asia-Pacific region.