By Belize Live News Staff: The twelfth North American, Central American and Caribbean Directors of Civil Aviation regional forum concluded on Wednesday in Placencia. Over 20 countries participated in the three-day event, which focused on advancing aviation in the region through discussions on gender equality, sustainability, compliance with international standards, and regional connectivity.
Nigel Carter, Director of Civil Aviation, highlighted the significance of the forum’s discussions, stating, “We have been addressing matters of mutual importance to the region, including gender equality, sustainability, and connectivity. The outcomes of this meeting will be shared with the IKO Air Navigation Conference in August and the IKO Assembly in 2005.”
Carter emphasized the importance of developing strategies to empower youth and women in aviation. “We are exploring better methodologies to increase the presence of women and youth in the aviation sector,” he said.
The forum also addressed the need for improved regional connectivity. “We aim to establish initiatives that foster dialogue at technical, senior, and political levels, facilitating discussions on increasing connectivity within and between Caribbean countries,” Carter added.
Kennedy Carillo, CEO of Civil Aviation, shared her personal experiences as a woman in the male-dominated aviation industry. “Having served as CEO for three and a half years and as a director on the COCESNA board, I’ve seen firsthand the opportunities available for women, particularly at leadership levels,” she said.
Carillo stressed the importance of women supporting and empowering each other in the field. “When we reach leadership positions, we must open doors for other women and young girls interested in aviation,” she urged. “We can work with the Ministry of Education to incorporate aviation into the curriculum, ensuring that young girls understand this is a field they can be a part of.”
Carillo’s endorsement as Belize’s candidate for the International Civil Aviation Organization Council, representing Central America in Montreal in 2025, demonstrates the progress women are making in aviation. “This is a testament that when doors are open, women like myself can definitely take advantage,” she concluded.
The conference served as a platform for regional collaboration and the exchange of ideas to advance aviation in the region. The outcomes of the discussions are expected to shape future policies and initiatives, ultimately benefiting the entire aviation community.
