The Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States is moving closer to establishing an independent aircraft accident investigation unit, a development aviation officials say will strengthen the region’s ability to conduct impartial investigations and improve aviation safety.

The update came from Eastern Caribbean Civil Aviation Authority (ECCAA) Director General Anthony Whittier during Thursday’s opening of the authority’s expanded headquarters at V.C. Bird International Airport.

Whittier said ECCAA has received support from France as work continues to establish the regional unit, which would be responsible for investigating aircraft accidents and incidents independently of aviation regulators and operators.

“We continue to have support from France as we work to establish an independent aircraft accident investigation unit,” Whittier said.

He revealed that qualified investigators have already been identified from Dominica and St. Kitts and Nevis as part of the initiative. The project has also received backing from the government of Dominica, where plans are underway to incorporate the facility into the country’s new international airport development.

According to Whittier, the unit is expected to be housed within the new airport project currently under construction in Dominica, which is targeted to open in 2027.

The proposed body would represent a significant step for regional aviation oversight by providing dedicated investigative capacity within the OECS rather than relying solely on external assistance when accidents occur.

The announcement forms part of a broader modernization agenda being pursued by ECCAA. During his address, Whittier also highlighted efforts to expand technical training, develop cybersecurity capabilities, improve aerodrome oversight and prepare for a Federal Aviation Administration reassessment tied to the region’s bid to regain Category 1 status.

ECCAA regulates civil aviation safety and oversight across six participating OECS member states and has been expanding its regional role through new training programmes, international partnerships and specialized aviation initiatives.

Whittier said the establishment of the independent accident investigation unit reflects growing regional cooperation and a commitment to meeting international aviation standards while enhancing safety throughout the Eastern Caribbean.