Q&A with Anthony Whittier, Director General of ECCAA

One-stop security is often discussed. What would this mean for passengers?

It would mean greater convenience. Screening would take place only at the point of origin, with participating states recognising each other’s standards. Thanks to the OECS framework, this could be piloted quickly between willing countries.

How do you view Antigua’s role as a regional hub?

Antigua is strategically positioned at the north-eastern point of the Antilles, making it a natural hub. Development in Barbuda also creates scope for executive and high-end operations.

What makes the ECCAA unique among regulators worldwide?

The ECCAA is the only civil aviation authority globally with legal responsibility for more than one sovereign state. This unique arrangement, established as a body corporate, enables a collective approach to regulation while ensuring safety and security across multiple jurisdictions.

How is the ECCAA progressing toward restoring FAA Category 1 status so airlines can expand services to the US?

Each state within the ECCAA has shown firm commitment to this goal. A milestone came in May 2024 with the ICAO Coordinated Validation Mission, where the ECCAA scored above the regional average in all three focus areas. Notably, we achieved 92 percent compliance in Airworthiness and a fivefold increase in Air Navigation Services. These results put us on a solid footing for reassessment soon.

How is the ECCAA progressing toward restoring FAA Category 1 status so airlines can expand services to the US?

Each state within the ECCAA has shown firm commitment to this goal. A milestone came in May 2024 with the ICAO Coordinated Validation Mission, where the ECCAA scored above the regional average in all three focus areas. Notably, we achieved 92 percent compliance in Airworthiness and a fivefold increase in Air Navigation Services. These results put us on a solid footing for reassessment soon.

Looking ahead, what is your outlook for Caribbean aviation?

I expect stronger cooperation among states, with forums like the Eastern Caribbean Airports Executive Forum creating unified approaches. New technologies such as electric aircraft and unmanned systems will also emerge, alongside new commercial and private entrants. Acting collectively will give the region greater resilience.

To learn more about the Eastern Caribbean Civil Aviation Authority (ECCAA), visit: www.eccaa.aero