The International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) Council has elected Toshiyuki Onuma of Japan as its President for a three-year term beginning 1 January 2026. The 36-member governing body selected him to succeed Salvatore Sciacchitano of Italy, who served two consecutive terms from 2020.
Onuma pulled 22 votes to beat his closest rival from Egypt, Dr. Sameh El-hefny who pulled 14 votes.
Outgoing President Salvatore Sciacchitano congratulated the incoming president, highlighting the role of the Council President in uniting ICAO’s 193 Member States around shared objectives. “The President of the Council is central to uniting ICAO’s Member States around our shared vision of air transport for all by 2050, with zero fatalities and net-zero carbon emissions. Consensus-building is a crucial pillar for the success of multilateralism and must always be pursued by the President,” Sciacchitano said.
ICAO Secretary General Juan Carlos Salazar also welcomed the new president, noting that his election reflects the confidence of the international aviation community. “Mr Toshiyuki Onuma’s election as President of the ICAO Council reflects the trust and high expectations of the international community at a transformative time for air transport worldwide,” Salazar said, recalling Onuma’s extensive experience in civil aviation policy and leadership.
Onuma currently serves as Japan’s Representative on the ICAO Council and brings more than 20 years of experience shaping national and international aviation policy. He has played key roles in aviation decarbonisation and regulatory development. Prior to his election, he held senior positions such as Senior Deputy Director-General of the Japan Civil Aviation Bureau (JCAB) and Assistant Vice-Minister for International Aviation.
Educated at the University of Tokyo, where he earned an LL.B., Onuma also holds an LL.M. from the University of Pennsylvania Law School. His academic background has informed his work in international aviation law, policy development, and leadership within ICAO and Japan’s civil aviation structures.
The election of Onuma is expected to bring continuity and expertise to ICAO at a time of evolving challenges in global aviation. His extensive background positions him to guide Member States in cooperative initiatives and policy formulation.
Outgoing President Sciacchitano expressed confidence in Onuma’s ability to lead the Council and build consensus among ICAO Member States. ICAO Secretary General Salazar noted that the election demonstrates the high expectations placed on Onuma to manage multilateral cooperation effectively and advance ICAO’s objectives in safety, sustainability, and international aviation standards.
As ICAO Council President, Onuma will oversee Council deliberations, facilitate international cooperation, and support Member States in implementing policies aligned with global aviation safety and environmental objectives. His leadership will be pivotal in ensuring that ICAO continues to coordinate international efforts on aviation regulation and decarbonisation.
The international aviation community has welcomed the election of Onuma, recognising his experience, legal expertise, and deep understanding of global civil aviation policy. Stakeholders look to his tenure to maintain continuity in ICAO’s work while addressing key priorities such as safety, environmental sustainability, and international cooperation.
Onuma’s election marks a significant moment for ICAO as the organisation continues to guide air transport policy worldwide. With his extensive experience in aviation governance, Member States anticipate a steady and knowledgeable hand at the Council’s helm.
