The International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) is emphasizing the importance of implementing comprehensive support systems for air crash victims and their families worldwide. Marking International Day for Victims of Aviation Accidents, ICAO Council President Toshiyuki Onuma highlighted the need for urgent, coordinated action rooted in compassion and responsibility. The organization advocates for establishing strong national assistance programs, improving victim recovery and identification, and enhancing legal frameworks for victim support.
ICAO has adopted Assembly Resolution A42-15, which guides states to develop effective family assistance plans, ensure timely notifications, and facilitate seamless information sharing. The organization is also promoting the ratification of the Montreal Convention (1999), which addresses airline liability and compensation, to better support victims' families globally.
Recent ICAO symposia have fostered collaboration among family representatives, industry leaders, and psychological experts to identify best practices. These initiatives aim to improve psychological support, harmonize compensation regimes, and incorporate family needs into national aviation safety policies. ICAO’s ongoing efforts include capacity-building workshops, practical manuals, and technical assistance, especially in regions facing heightened risks due to conflict or instability.
The ICAO Council President stressed that safety culture must encompass empathy and transparency, with operators and authorities prioritizing direct family support and responsible communication. The organization is committed to ongoing monitoring, transparency, and sharing of lessons learned to elevate aviation safety and support worldwide.
