For Statistical Accuracy, A Large Sample Is Requested

The EBAA has launched a web-based survey on Flight Time Limitations(FTL) whose input will be used to help develop a tailored business aviation regulation for EU pilots.

Launched in conjunction with the leading global specialist on the management of fatigue in aviation, Mark R. Rosekind, PHD of Alertness Solutions, this survey targets EU-based fixed-wing business aircraft pilots. To guarantee the validity of the survey, responses from a large number of business aircraft pilots is needed.

To date, business aviation commercial operations have been covered by the same regulation applied to the airlines, with some national variations. Beginning in June 2012, a new aviation safety regulation will enter into force and will be applicable everywhere in Europe. National deviations will no longer be permitted.

As the new regulation is drafted, it is important for the sector to convince regulators that business aviation operations are simply not comparable to airline operations and as such, should not to be covered by the same regulations in the future. European business aircraft operators need tailored rules designed to cover their specific needs, ensuring safe operations while providing the flexibility needed to conduct their businesses.

“This study will collect crucial data from business aircraft pilots, which will be used as the basis for customised EU Flight Time Limitations rules,” says Brian Humphries, EBAA president and CEO. “The collected data will support and help the community define deviations between safety and operational needs and the existing FTL regulation. In particular, it will be used to provide strong scientific evidence to ensure the safety of business aviation operations from a medical standpoint, as well as identifying potential operational risks.”

The business aviation community’s involvement has been outstanding, and EBAA has already collected a very large number of questionnaires completed by pilots from all across Europe. But to ensure the study is as broadly-based as possible, the Association is asking for more pilots to fill out the survey.

FMI: www.alertsol.com/EBAA/, www.ebaa.org