Astana hosted a joint meeting of the working groups WG-4 ICH CIS WMO and PT EAST-22 METG EASPG ICAO, attended by former PT EAST METG EASPG ICAO Chair and current ICAO Officer Nino Gelovani, along with 50 experts from CIS countries.

The primary focus of the meeting was addressing pressing issues in aviation meteorology and exploring potential solutions. Participants developed specific recommendations and proposals to enhance the exchange of meteorological information and advance international systems. ICAO Officer Nino Gelovani highlighted the successful launch and establishment of Kazakhstan’s National OPMET Center (NOC Astana Data Bank) and the country’s transition to the IWXXM digital format for transmitting meteorological information to international data banks.

A special session was devoted to cooperation in the field of space weather. Experts from the Aviation Administration of Kazakhstan (AAK) proposed integrating Kazakhstan’s Ionosphere Institute into the Russian-Chinese consortium for space weather information, a proposal that was thoroughly discussed during the meeting.

A key highlight was the election of AAK Aviation Inspector Maxat Tundebayev as Chair of PT EAST METG EASPG ICAO. Under his leadership, the working group will coordinate the participating countries’ efforts to implement modern meteorological systems and standardize data exchange processes.

The meeting also addressed the application of artificial intelligence in forecasting hazardous meteorological phenomena affecting flight safety. Experts emphasized the importance of adopting advanced technologies to improve forecast accuracy and provide timely warnings for threats such as low visibility, turbulence, and other dangerous weather conditions impacting air traffic safety.

Looking ahead, the meeting outlined key priorities, including implementing the SWIM system and adopting Amendments 81 and 82 to ICAO Annex 3. The draft ICAO document PANS MET, aimed at enhancing standards and procedures in aviation meteorology, was also reviewed.

This meeting marked a significant step toward strengthening regional cooperation in aviation meteorology and advancing international meteorological systems. These efforts will positively impact air traffic safety and improve the quality of meteorological data.