Enhancing State Safety Oversight in Yemen Airport Operation:

Addressing Conflicts of Interest within Regulatory Frameworks

Qais Abdulwahab Gadan

Asmar Binti Abdulrahim

Nor Anita Binti Abdullah

 

Abstract: State Safety Oversight (SSO) is fundamental to maintaining a high level of safety performance across airport operations. However, in many civil aviation systems, particularly in states where regulatory authorities also provide service provision, conflicts of interest can compromise regulatory compliance, transparency, and decision-making. This article examines the structural, operational, and Yemen-related challenges associated with such conflicts of interest. It investigates how they undermine oversight functions mandated under ICAO’s Safety Oversight Framework and the State Safety Programme (SSP). Drawing on global regulatory models, the article discusses the institutional separation of service provision and oversight, risk-based regulatory approaches, and accountability mechanisms that strengthen oversight of safety. This article covers the Chicago Convention of 1944, relevant ICAO Annexes and documents, and the Yemen Civil Aviation Law and Regulations. This article is based on the doctrinal and qualitative research methods. The findings emphasise that resolving conflicts of interest is essential for ensuring regulatory impartiality, strengthening safety assurance, and improving overall aviation system performance.