International Civil Aviation Day 2021: Significance, Ways To Celebrate The Industry

International Civil Aviation Day, observed every Dec. 7, has been celebrated by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) since 1994. On this day, we raise worldwide awareness about the importance of international civil aviation.

Civil aviation simply refers to flights and aircraft that are used for personal and business use rather than for military use. This includes the transport of passengers or goods.

In 1994, International Civil Aviation Day was established as a part of ICAO's 50th-anniversary activities, the organization noted. It was celebrated on Dec. 7 as this was the day in 1944 when the Convention on International Civil Aviation, or more commonly known as the Chicago Convention, was signed to develop international civil aviation "in a safe and orderly manner," with the services established "on the basis of equality of opportunity and operated soundly and economically."

The United Nations (UN) officially declared the event just two years later in 1996, and it has been celebrated by the member states since.

Significance Of International Civil Aviation Day

"The purpose of International Civil Aviation Day is to help generate and reinforce worldwide awareness of the importance of international civil aviation to the social and economic development of States, and of the unique role of ICAO in helping States to cooperate and realize a truly global rapid transit network at the service of all mankind," ICAO noted.

The convention also established ICAO. Since then, the International Civil Aviation network has been carrying over four billion passengers each year, with the global air transport sector supporting 65.5 million jobs, as per the UN. According to the organization, some 3.6% of global economic activity is supported by the aviation industry.

The theme for International Civil Aviation Day changes every five years. This year, the theme is still "Advancing Innovation for Global Aviation Development," and it will be in place until 2023.

"On International Civil Aviation Day, we recognize the many contributions of air travel to our world – from connecting societies and delivering vital goods to supporting millions of livelihoods and contributing billions to the global economy," UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said in a message for this year's observance.

"Throughout the pandemic, aviation has sustained critical global supply chains. Looking forward, it needs investment in short-term recovery and long-term sustainability. A healthy, resilient aviation sector that recognizes its climate responsibilities is essential to reconnecting the world," he added.

How To Celebrate

Everyone can celebrate International Civil Aviation Day whether they're a part of the aviation industry or not. For instance, one can look for educational activities such as aviation-themed lectures or perhaps events such as air shows or airport tours near your location.

Others may also research more about the industry, for instance by watching some documentaries about aviation or visiting an aviation museum. Some may even look into considering a career in aviation. After all, there are many possible career paths in the aviation industry.

Perhaps one of the simplest ways to celebrate International Civil Aviation Day would be to take to social media, whether it's to thank the hardworking workers in the industry or share a favorite travel or aviation-related experience.

No matter what one chooses to do, the point is to celebrate and raise awareness about this important industry.