Officials, directors, and collaborators from IDAC, JAC, DA and CESAC during the floral tribute. (Photo: IDAC Communications Department)
Santo Domingo.- The Dominican Institute of Civil Aviation (IDAC), alongside the Civil Aviation Board (JAC), the Specialized Corps in Airport and Civil Aviation Security (CESAC), and the Airport Department (DA), inaugurated Dominican Civil Aviation Week 2024 with a floral tribute at the Altar de la Patria and a thanksgiving mass at the Castrense Cathedral of Santa Bárbara. The events brought together aviation officials, collaborators, and key stakeholders in the country’s aeronautical sector.
The solemn ceremonies reflect the unified efforts of the nation’s aviation authorities, whose goals align with President Luis Abinader’s vision of establishing the Dominican Republic as the premier tourism hub in the region. Civil aviation plays a vital role in achieving this, serving as the main gateway for the millions of travelers visiting the country annually.
“Aviation connects people, drives economies, and strengthens cultural ties between nations,” said Igor Rodríguez Durán, IDAC’s Director General, during his remarks at the cathedral. “In our region, civil aviation has been a cornerstone of economic and social growth. Every flight not only carries passengers and goods but also dreams, opportunities, and hope.”
The floral tribute and thanksgiving mass are key components of Civil Aviation Week, an annual celebration organized by IDAC. The week culminates on December 7 with the observance of International Civil Aviation Day, established in 1994 by the United Nations General Assembly at the initiative of the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO).
While acknowledging the sector’s accomplishments, Rodríguez Durán highlighted ongoing challenges, including environmental sustainability, post-pandemic recovery, and the integration of innovative technologies to meet 21st-century demands. “This is a call to action for all of us to work together to build a greener, more efficient, and accessible aviation sector,” he said.
He also praised the efforts of President Abinader and Tourism Minister David Collado in strengthening the aviation sector, reaffirming the country’s commitment to the core principles of civil aviation: safety, efficiency, accessibility, and innovation.
Attendees at the events included the heads of IDAC, JAC, CESAC, and DA – Igor Rodríguez Durán, Héctor Porcella, Brigadier General Pilot Emmanuel Souffront Tamayo, and Víctor Pichardo, respectively – as well as sub-directors, department heads, coordinators, special guests, and employees from the four agencies.
The floral tribute featured the Dominican Air Force Band performing the National Anthem, while Reverend Father Milcíades Florentino officiated the thanksgiving mass.