Belize Begins Major Aviation Regulatory Overhaul

CAA International (CAAi) and ALG have been appointed to support aviation sector development in Belize. The seven-month project, which began in February, has CAAi providing regulatory and legislative expertise to help establish a new independent aviation regulator and separate service provision, in line with ICAO requirements.

The programme has three components. CAAi is drafting the primary aviation legislation and supporting legal instruments, ensuring the framework aligns with government policy and ICAO requirements. ALG is leading overall project coordination, including benchmarking fees, charges and earning capacity, and developing a local airport master plan. CAAi is supporting this work with legal and policy input where relevant.

CAAi began its review of Belize's existing civil aviation legal and institutional framework in February, identifying gaps against ICAO Standards and Recommended Practices. This review will inform new legislation to establish an independent Civil Aviation Authority, transfer air navigation service provision to dedicated operators, and create an independent Air Accident Investigation and Prevention Body under ICAO Annex 13.

Belize's hotel capacity has grown by more than 35% over the past decade, increasing pressure on its aviation system, particularly at domestic aerodromes near tourist destinations.

Basilio Briguglio, Senior Manager of International Development at CAAi, commented: "We are delighted to be working with ALG to support the development of the Belize aviation sector. With continued growth in passenger demand and a strong tourism outlook, our team looks forward to assisting our CAA counterparts in Belize to ensure that aviation systems keep pace with ICAO standards, supporting safety, resilience, and global harmonisation as Belize positions itself for long-term, sustainable growth."

The project is expected to be completed by September 2026.