The International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) has officially launched the ICAO Global Ambassadors Programme, a global outreach initiative designed to engage and inspire the next generation of aviation professionals. Introduced in 2026, the programme aligns closely with ICAO’s Strategic Plan 2026-2050 and seeks to promote participation in the aviation sector while emphasizing diversity, sustainability, and innovation.
The programme draws on the expertise of prominent aviation leaders and role models to highlight the varied and rewarding career paths within the industry. Special attention is given to encouraging youth and women to consider careers in aviation, aiming to break down barriers and spark interest in one of the world’s most dynamic sectors.
Following a recommendation from the Japan Civil Aviation Bureau, two Japanese aviation leaders have been appointed as ICAO Global Ambassadors. Tomoko Hoya, Executive Vice President and Chief Sustainability Officer at ANA Holdings Inc., and Kumiko Miyasaka, Managing Executive Officer and Senior Vice President at Japan Airlines Co., Ltd., will serve as ambassadors in Japan. Both are expected to participate in educational initiatives, international conferences, and outreach activities that highlight the importance of aviation to global transport and economic development.
Through their roles, Hoya and Miyasaka will collaborate with stakeholders in Japan and abroad to advance the sustainable growth of the aviation industry while promoting diversity and inclusion. The programme emphasizes the human face of aviation, enabling ambassadors to engage directly with students, professional organizations, and underrepresented communities, opening doors for future careers in the sector.
The ICAO Global Ambassadors Programme is also a strategic response to the broader challenges facing aviation. As the industry works toward sustainable expansion, including achieving net-zero carbon emissions and improving safety while tripling capacity, it requires support for infrastructure development in emerging nations and international cooperation on technological and operational innovations. Ambassadors play a key role in cultivating the talent needed to meet these challenges.
Beyond outreach, ambassadors engage at the highest levels of the aviation community. They participate in international forums, contribute to policy discussions, and connect with leaders across governments, industry, and civil society. By leveraging ICAO’s global network of member states, industry partners, and multilateral organizations, the programme provides a platform for influencing aviation policy and driving the industry toward a safer, more sustainable, and more accessible future.
The ICAO Global Ambassadors Programme is funded through the voluntary contribution of the United Kingdom, and ICAO encourages continued support and active participation from all member states. By combining mentorship, advocacy, and policy engagement, the initiative aims to inspire a new generation of aviation professionals while reinforcing ICAO’s Strategic Goal of ensuring that no country is left behind in the benefits of global air transport.