Airplane take off at London Heathrow Airport. The International Civil Aviation Organization calls for increased support for plane crash victims and their loved ones Peace and security
The International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) has called on governments and the aviation industry to accelerate the creation and strengthening of support systems for victims and their relatives. The UN specialized agency made this statement on the International Day of Remembrance for Air Crash Victims and Their Families.
Chairman of the ICAO Council Toshiyuki Onuma noted that this day is an occasion to remember those who died in plane crashes and express solidarity with their loved ones. According to him, the international community has a collective responsibility to ensure that support is timely and effective.
Help for victims
Last year, ICAO member states unanimously adopted a resolution obliging countries to develop mechanisms to assist victims and families of victims. The document provides for the creation of clear procedures for informing relatives, treating them with respect, ensuring access to psychological and social support, as well as proper identification of the dead.
Particular attention is paid to the need for long-term assistance, since the consequences of the tragedy can be felt for years. The resolution emphasizes that support must be enshrined in national legislation and comply with international standards.
Incident investigation
ICAO has also updated its accident investigation requirements. States must now promptly publish preliminary information about disasters, use clear language in reports, and include the views of families in the investigation process. These measures are aimed at increasing transparency and trust.
ICAO programs
The organization continues to help countries improve their national systems. For this purpose, practical guides are developed, training seminars are held and technical support is provided. Particular attention is paid to high-risk regions and countries with limited resources.
ICAO also encourages wider ratification of the Montreal Convention (Convention for the Unification of Certain Rules for International Carriage by Air) 1999, which establishes uniform international principles of air carrier liability and compensation for victims. To date, 143 states have joined it.