GCAA: What Algeria's Air Services Agreement Termination Means for UAE Flights

Ujjwal Sukhwani
By Ujjwal SukhwaniPublished Feb 8, 2026 at 06:35 PM UTC, 3 min read

Aviation News Editor & Industry Analyst delivering clear coverage for a worldwide audience.

GCAA: What Algeria's Air Services Agreement Termination Means for UAE Flights

GCAA confirms UAE-Algeria flight operations are unaffected during the 12-month notice period following Algeria's formal Air Services Agreement termination.

Key Takeaways

  • GCAA confirmed the Air Services Agreement remains active during the approximately 12-month legally mandated notice period.
  • Algeria initiated the ASA termination under Article 22, requiring notification via diplomatic channels and to ICAO.
  • Flight operations between the UAE and Algeria will continue as scheduled without immediate disruption to passengers or cargo.
  • The notice period allows carriers like Air Algérie, Emirates, and Etihad Airways time to prepare for potential changes to bilateral aviation rights.

The General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) of the United Arab Emirates has issued a clarification. This follows the People's Democratic Republic of Algeria's notification. Algeria formally announced the cessation of the Air Services Agreement (ASA) between the two nations. The GCAA stressed that this measure is standard practice. It falls within the mechanisms of international agreement frameworks.

Continued Flight Operations

The GCAA confirmed there is no immediate impact on air traffic operations. The existing Air Services Agreement termination process mandates a notice period. This period, standard in ICAO-style agreements, is typically twelve months from the date of receipt of the notice. Therefore, Algeria UAE flight operations will continue as normal throughout this time. This includes all scheduled passenger and cargo services.

This clarification offers certainty for travelers and airlines. It prevents immediate disruption to the air travel market. The ASA, signed in 2013 and ratified in 2014, remains legally in force.

Legal and Diplomatic Frameworks

Algeria initiated the cancellation under Article 22 of the bilateral treaty. This procedure requires notifying the other contracting party. Notification must be sent through diplomatic channels notification. The Secretary-General of the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) must also be informed. This adherence to protocol is key for maintaining order. It ensures stability in bilateral aviation rights matters.

The GCAA confirmed ongoing coordination with all relevant entities. They are addressing these GCAA clarifies developments professionally. The process adheres to established legal and diplomatic frameworks.

Industry and Airline Impact

Major carriers operating routes between the two countries include Air Algérie. UAE-based airlines like Emirates and Etihad Airways could also be affected. The ASA previously allowed for an unlimited number of designated national carriers. They could operate regular flights without capacity restrictions.

The ultimate termination of the agreement could reshape the air travel market. It may necessitate new, temporary bilateral arrangements. Without a new agreement, Emirati airlines Algeria access could be restricted. This would impact passenger traffic, tourism, and air cargo flows. The current legally mandated notice period provides time. It allows both civil aviation authorities to negotiate future arrangements.

This development comes amid reported diplomatic tensions. Algerian media has previously criticized the UAE. However, the GCAA statement focuses solely on the technical aviation procedures. It emphasizes regulatory compliance and continuity of service.

For in-depth airline coverage and commercial aviation news, flying.flights delivers timely industry insights. For reporting on UAP sightings, investigations, and aviation-related encounters, see the UAPs section at flying.flights/uaps.

Ujjwal Sukhwani

Written by Ujjwal Sukhwani

Aviation News Editor & Industry Analyst delivering clear coverage for a worldwide audience. Covers flight operations, safety regulations, and market trends with expert analysis.

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