GCAA launches e-services platform for aircraft landing permits
The Guyana Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) on Monday unveiled its new Aircraft Landing Permit e-Services Portal a major leap toward modernizing Guyana’s aviation administration. The launch ceremony, held at the GCAA’s Kingston headquarters, was attended by Minister of Public Utilities and Aviation Deodat Indar, National Security Advisor Captain Gerry Gouveia, GCAA Director General Lt. Col. (Ret’d) Egbert Field, and Chief Technology Officer at the Office of the President, Darrell Akiyong.
The platform replaces the traditional paper-based and email process used for nearly two decades. Aircraft operators and handlers around the world can now apply for landing permits online through a secure system designed to improve speed, safety, and transparency.
Director General Field described the launch as a “big deal” for Guyana’s aviation industry. “From 2003 to 2007, operators wrote requests on paper, then by email. Today, we are fully digital,” he said. “Not many CARICOM countries have such a system in fact, we may be the only one.”
He explained that the new system processes more than 500 landing permit applications each year and is built to handle double that as air traffic grows. Field said the shift to digital operations reduces paperwork, increases accountability, and allows faster approvals. “This initiative saves time and improves safety. Everything is now accessible online in real time,” he stated.
The project forms part of the GCAA’s wider Electronic Data Management System (EDMS) initiative, launched in 2024 with support from the government and the National Data Management Authority (NDMA). The initiative includes modules for record-keeping, human resource management, payroll, and drone permit applications all aimed at streamlining operations and modernizing aviation oversight.
Chief Technology Officer Darrell Akiyong said the platform directly reflects President Irfaan Ali’s push for a modern, digital public service. “This portal transforms a once manual and time-consuming process into a fully digital experience,” he noted. “Operators can now apply from anywhere in the world, receive real-time updates, and verify permits through embedded QR codes. It’s an example of how technology supports better governance and national development.”
He emphasized that the system was developed entirely by local teams at the NDMA, proving Guyana’s growing ability to build and manage its own e-government solutions.
Delivering the feature address, Minister Indar said the launch marks an important shift in how Guyana delivers aviation services, especially as international air traffic increases. “Some might see this as a simple permitting system, but it’s a big step forward,” he stated. “It enhances efficiency, shortens response time, and aligns our aviation services with international standards.”
He added that the new system allows for faster coordination between key agencies such as the GCAA, CANU, the Guyana Police Force, the Defence Force, and the National Security Advisor’s office, ensuring sensitive or high-priority flights can be processed within 24 hours.
Minister Indar also announced that the Drone Permit e-Application System will be launched before year-end. The platform will enable drone operators across the country to register and apply online a move expected to strengthen oversight as drone use expands in areas such as agriculture, photography, and medical delivery.
“With drones now being used for everything from surveying to telemedicine, this next step is essential,” Indar said. “We are building a modern aviation framework that matches the pace of global change.”
The GCAA’s modernization efforts, he added, also complement broader plans to expand infrastructure, including a second terminal at the Cheddi Jagan International Airport and improved cargo facilities.
Director General Field concluded that the Authority’s digital transformation is about “progress and pride.” He said, “We’re embracing technology to make our services faster, safer, and more transparent and it’s a proud moment for Guyana’s aviation sector.”
