A. M. 
The Legislative Assembly’s Commission on Salvadorans Abroad, Legislation, and Constitutional Matters issued a favorable opinion on a reform to the Organic Law of Civil Aviation, aimed at modernizing the requirements for flight crews, strengthening operational safety, and harmonizing national regulations with international standards.
The proposal modifies Article 140 of the law to establish that air transport companies certified as national operators must be based in El Salvador and that their flight crews must possess the qualifications and competencies required by current legislation and regulations.
Technical update and greater regulatory agility
Prior to the approval of the opinion, the deputies heard from the executive director of Civil Aviation, Homero Morales, who explained that the Civil Aviation Authority is the entity responsible for regulating, certifying and supervising the air industry in the country, in addition to ensuring compliance with the commitments assumed by El Salvador in the Convention on International Civil Aviation.
Morales said that global technical standards are issued by the Organización de Aviación Civil Internacional (OACI), which recommends that laws establish general guidelines and that specific technical aspects be developed in aeronautical regulations, allowing for more agile updates.
In this regard, the reform would allow requirements such as licenses, ratings, and certifications for aeronautical personnel to be regulated according to international standards and to be adjusted more quickly in response to changes in the industry.
Sector growth and improved connectivity
The initiative arises in the context of expanding air traffic. According to data presented to the commission, passenger traffic exceeded 5.2 million by the end of 2025, reflecting a sustained recovery after the pandemic.
According to the official, having modern regulations will strengthen the regulatory system, generate greater confidence among international operators, and improve the country’s air connectivity. This would facilitate investment and support the growth of air transport, as well as the expansion of airport infrastructure.
It was also highlighted that the regulatory update will open more job opportunities for salvadoran technical personnel by raising training and professional certification standards.
Morales emphasized that the modifications do not seek to restrict market participation, but rather to adapt the law to the sector’s real growth, maintaining state oversight without affecting competitiveness. He added that compliance with international regulations allows certified operators to have global recognition and support.
A strategic moment for the country
Congresswoman Ana Figueroa stated that civil aviation is a highly technical sector, governed by international standards, and considered that El Salvador is at an opportune moment to update its legal framework.
She indicated that adapting the regulations will strengthen the sector’s competitiveness and support its growth in an increasingly demanding global environment.
The favorable opinion will be sent to the full Legislative Assembly, where the representatives will decide in plenary session whether or not to approve the reform to the Organic Law of Civil Aviation.
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