Notes High Level Of Aviation Safety In Europe

The European Aviation Safety Agency's 2006 Annual Safety Review highlights the significant improvements achieved in aviation safety in recent years. Worldwide, 2006 saw the lowest number of fatal accidents (42) to fixed wing aircraft in public transportation within the last decade (1997-2006).

The Annual Safety Review is compiled by EASA to inform the public of safety levels in civil aviation. The data used are provided by the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) and the Agency’s 31 members, which include the 27 Member States of the European Union, as well as Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway and Switzerland.

In 2006 the number of fatal accidents to fixed wing aircraft in public transportation in Europe (6) was equal to the average for the decade, although it has increased since 2004, which was exceptionally low (2).

While accident rates in Europe are low, the Agency’s Review indicates that there is still room for improvement.

Efforts to maintain and improve aviation safety continue to be a priority for EASA. Responding to the need for a coordinated European effort, the Agency launched in April 2006 the European Strategic Safety Initiative (ESSI). The objective of ESSI is to further enhance safety for European citizens, through analysis of data and coordination with safety initiatives worldwide.

EASA also takes specific actions in response to accident experience. These include working on the improvement of regulatory material in its rulemaking activities and improving the operational system by actions including the issuing of Airworthiness Directives.

FMI: Read The Full EASA Report Here (.pdf)