The University of Management and Technology (UMT), Institute of Aviation Studies (IAS), organized the First International Conference and Seminar on Aviation Safety and Investigations. The event brought together globally renowned aviation experts, national professionals, academicians and industry leaders to discuss critical issues related to aviation safety.
Maj Gen Muhammad Saeed Anwar Khan, General Officer Commanding (GOC) Army Aviation Command, graced the occasion as the chief guest. Distinguished attendees included Dr Asif Raza (Rector UMT), Mian Umar Mazhar (Head of Training and Operations, IAS), Prof Dr Ahmad Aizaz (Dean IAS and Air Commodore Retd.), Michael Doron (President, CERES Aviation Safety Services), Kaj Frostell (Former Chief, Accident Investigation and Prevention, ICAO), Dr Arif Sikandar (Murdoch University, Australia), Maj Gen (R) Muhammad Khalil Dar (Vice Chancellor, Lahore Garrison University), Syed Naseem Ahmed (Wing Commander Retd.) and a large number of students attended the conference.
The conference featured more than ten research papers focused on aviation safety, investigations, and recent advancements in the field. Special sessions, led by industry professionals, highlighted challenges in the aviation sector and proposed practical solutions for safer air operations.
Rector Dr Asif Raza emphasized the critical importance of aviation, underscoring the significant responsibility it carries for the safety of human lives. He also highlighted UMT’s commitment to academic excellence, its strong global ranking and the institution’s dedication to providing high-quality, practical education. He stressed the role of academia-industry collaboration and the application of advanced technologies, including Artificial Intelligence (AI), in making aviation more secure and resilient.
Addressing the event, Maj Gen Muhammad Saeed Anwar Khan praised the conference and urged the youth to learn from the experience and mentorship of senior professionals. He cautioned students against shortcuts, emphasizing hard work and competence as keys to success in such a sensitive field. Recalling the Airblue crash, he underscored the importance of teamwork and professional balance in the cockpit. He also addressed the increasing complexity of airspace due to emerging technologies like drones, highlighting the need for advanced and integrated airspace management strategies to ensure safety in the skies.
The conference concluded with the presentation of souvenirs by Dr Asif Raza to Maj Gen Muhammad Saeed Anwar Khan and other esteemed guests in recognition of their participation.
