The Civil Aviation Authority of Sri Lanka (CAASL) successfully concluded the 21st Steering Committee Meeting (SCM) of the Cooperative Aviation Security Programme – Asia Pacific (CASP-AP), held from 23 to 24 June 2026

The two-day meeting brought together aviation security leaders, regulators, and experts from member States and international organizations across the Asia-Pacific region to discuss strategic initiatives, emerging security challenges, and collaborative efforts aimed at strengthening aviation security throughout the region.

A significant milestone of the meeting was the formal assumption of the CASP-AP Chairmanship by Sri Lanka for the 2026–2027 term, with Captain Daminda Rambukwella, Director General of Civil Aviation and Chief Executive Officer of the Civil Aviation Authority of Sri Lanka, assuming the role of Chairman. This achievement further demonstrates Sri Lanka’s commitment to enhancing regional aviation security cooperation and capacity-building initiatives.

Throughout the meeting, delegates reviewed the progress of ongoing CASP-AP activities, discussed future priorities, and explored strategies to strengthen aviation security capabilities across the region. The deliberations reaffirmed the collective commitment of member States and partner organizations to maintaining a secure, resilient, and sustainable aviation system throughout the Asia-Pacific region.

Key Outcomes of the 21st CASP-AP Steering Committee Meeting

The meeting concluded with several significant outcomes that will guide the Programme’s activities in the coming year, including

• Strengthening regional aviation security cooperation among CASP-AP Member States.

• Sharing information, experiences, and best practices related to aviation security.

• Reviewing and supporting the implementation of the Annual Programme for the coming year.

• Enhancing capacity-building initiatives across the Asia-Pacific region.

• Adopting resolutions to strengthen oversight and compliance mechanisms.

• Promoting knowledge sharing and professional development in aviation security.

• Confirming Timor-Leste as the host of the next CASP-AP Steering Committee Meeting.

• Approving the 2027 CASP-AP Budget to support the implementation of planned activities and programmes for the forthcoming year.

• Finalizing the Training Programmes for 2026–2027 to strengthen aviation security competencies across the Asia-Pacific region.

CAASL gratefully acknowledges the unwavering support provided by the Government of Sri Lanka towards the successful hosting of the 21st CASP-AP Steering Committee Meeting. Special appreciation is extended to the Hon. Minister of Ports, Civil Aviation and Energy, Mr. Anura Karunathilaka, for facilitating the necessary Government patronage and Cabinet approval, as well as to the Hon. Deputy Minister of Ports and Civil Aviation, Mr. Janitha Ruwan Kodithuwakku, and the Secretary to the Ministry of Ports and Civil Aviation, Mr. W.W.S. Mangala, for their valuable support and encouragement throughout the planning and implementation of the programme.

Following the successful conclusion of the 21st CASP-AP Steering Committee Meeting, Sri Lanka will continue its role as host nation by welcoming delegates to the 14th Regional Aviation Security Coordination Forum (RASCF) for the Asia and Pacific Regions, which will commence on 25 June 2026

As the newly appointed Chair of CASP-AP, Sri Lanka looks forward to working closely with Member States, the International Civil Aviation Organization, and regional partners to advance aviation security objectives and foster greater cooperation across the Asia-Pacific region.

The successful hosting of the 21st CASP-AP Steering Committee Meeting further underscores Sri Lanka’s growing role as a trusted partner in regional aviation development and its continued dedication to supporting global aviation security standards, best practices, and collaborative initiatives.