European Commission Studying The Concept Of An Overarching Organization For Aviation

The European Union has launched a consultation process that could lead to the establishment of a European Aviation Agency styled after the FAA. The organization would have broad powers over all aspects of aviation, many of which are currently under the auspices of civil aviation authorities of individual countries.

Air Traffic Management.net reports that the formation of the new agency would mean that aviation regulations would be applied consistently across the EU member countries as agreed to at a European level. Those would include functions ranging from determining airworthiness to air traffic management.

In the consultation process launched by the EC, the aviation industry is being asked if the new agency should be an outgrowth of EASA, or if an entirely new agency should be formed.

Some industry insiders have expressed disappointment in EASA and the Single European Sky initiative. EASA is viewed in some circles as being less than transparent and slow in its decision-making. One said that the idea of a European Aviation Administration is not new, but it "is the first time it has broken cover."

The source, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said that one scenario would have the senior management of EASA report to the new agency, holding on to a large knowledge base. It would in essence be the "FAA without (an) air traffic organization," he said.

FMI: http://europa.eu/index_en.htm