The Training Program on Aviation and Airport Operations Receives Second Round of Support from Korea

The Airside Safety and Airport Masterplan training program was held on 14^th November 2023 at the Crowne Plaza Hotel, Vientiane. The training was conducted by the Dohwa Engineering Co., Ltd. and the Korea Airports Corporation (KAC) from the Republic of Korea incorporated with the Department of Civil Aviation (DCA), Airport of Laos, Wattay International Airport, under the Ministry of Public Works and Transport (MPWT) in Laos. The program aims to develop an airport expansion project in Laos to encounter international standards for airport safety operations which is supported by the Republic of Korea through KOTRA's Global ESG+ program.

Korea Trade-Investment Promotion Agency (KOTRA) Vientiane proudly promoted and organized this meaningful event. The session was attended by Mr. Pilseong Kim, the Director General of KOTRA Vientiane; Mr. Bountaeng SYMOON, the Deputy Director General of DCA; Dohwa Engineering Co., Ltd; Korea Airports Corporation; as well as other officials, lecturers, and 32 trainees from the Department of Civil Aviation, Airport of Laos, and other relevant airport sections.

The Airside Safety and Aviation Security Training, initiated in 2022, extends into 2023 with a continued focus on Airside Safety and Airport Masterplan. The training program has been structured into two sessions, offering comprehensive coverage of essential topics. These sessions include in-depth discussions on Korean regulations pertaining to airside operation systems and safety management. The program delved into key elements of airport master planning, emphasizing considerations for land use in the surrounding areas, environmental assessments, and the establishment of necessary airport requirements. Additionally, it covers design standards and classifications. In a further capacity-building effort, a seminar was conducted in Luang Prabang on 16^th November 2023, with the participation of 25 staff members from Luang Prabang International Airport.

Mr. Bountaeng SYMOON, the Deputy Director General of DCA, expressed, “The high-standard Korean training program for aviation officials and staff in Laos has provided an opportunity to identify hidden hazards in people’s daily practices and facilities. This equips the Airport of Laos with the necessary expertise and knowledge to enhance operational capabilities, safety measures, environmental sustainability, and long-term planning. It will enable the airport to align with international standards and best practices, contributing to the overall development and growth of aviation in Laos.”

Mr. Pilseong Kim, the Director General of KOTRA Vientiane, stated, “The Airside Safety and Aviation Security Training has been regularized for the second time in the past year. Our trade office is currently preparing a Knowledge Sharing Program (KSP) for the MPWT Civil Aviation Department, focusing on operational innovation at Luang Prabang Airport. The KSP is already in the bidding process for the captain of the operator in Korea and is expected to be carried out for approximately two years starting from February next year.”