Emirates Engineering becomes first UAE organisation to receive major design modification approval from GCAA

Emirates Engineering has achieved a groundbreaking milestone in UAE aviation: it is now the first organisation in the country to receive Design Organisation Approval (DOA) from the General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) for major aircraft modifications.

Certification Achievement
- The DOA allows Emirates Engineering to independently design and certify major aircraft modifications through Supplemental Type Certificates (STCs).
- This elevates their existing capabilities from minor modifications to complex cabin reconfigurations and design changes.

Strategic Impact
- Emirates now has direct control over product development, specifications, and timelines, reducing reliance on external OEMs or third-party design organisations.
- The approval covers both Airbus and Boeing aircraft types, giving flexibility across the fleet.

Regulatory Significance
- The GCAA’s certification reflects the strength of the UAE’s aviation regulatory framework, empowering local engineering providers to meet global standards.
- It positions the UAE as a growing hub for aviation innovation and safety leadership.

Operational Expansion
- Emirates Engineering has expanded its design team from 5 to 13 specialists, with plans for further growth.
- This capability supports Emirates’ massive fleet refurbishment programme for Airbus A380s and Boeing 777s.
- It also aligns with the development of Emirates’ MRO facilities at Dubai World Central (DWC).

Future Potential
- Beyond retrofits, Emirates can now pursue cabin technology innovations, local component manufacturing, and intellectual property development.
- This places Emirates among a select group of airlines worldwide with in-house major design and certification capabilities.

In essence, this approval is a strategic advantage for Emirates and the UAE, strengthening their role in global aviation while ensuring faster, more cost-efficient, and innovative aircraft modifications.