Sets Standards, Offers Mobility For Controllers In Europe

EASA, the European Aviation Safety Agency, is noting the entry into force Wednesday of new rules for the licensing and medical certification of Air Traffic Controllers, or ATCO for short. The comprehensive agreement, which includes criteria for determining everything from the competence of regulating authorities and training providers to medical and training standards for controllers, was adopted by member states August 10, but did not take effect until 20 days after publication in the Official Journal of the European Union.

Building on a European Directive from 2006, the regulation replaces potentially differing national rules and offers greater professional mobility for air traffic controllers. Controllers holding a license issued in accordance with the regulation will be able to work in all member states.

EASA says the legislative process has ensured continuity with previous rules, as demanded by stakeholders. Changes are limited to the most necessary, and adaptation periods are granted to concerned parties. The grandfathering of privileges of already acquired licenses is ensured via transitional arrangements.

"With the entry into force of the ATCO regulation today, EASA has contributed the first implementing rule of the extension of the agency’s competence to air traffic management," said EASA Executive Director, Patrick Goudou. "The harmonization of air traffic controller licensing will make an important contribution to the achievement of a high and uniform level of safety across Europe."

EASA calls itself the centerpiece of the European Union's strategy for aviation safety. Its expressed mission is to promote and achieve the highest common standards of safety and environmental protection in civil aviation. Based in Cologne, the agency currently employs more than 500 experts and administrators from all over Europe.

FMI