Something New Across The Pond

The National Air Transportation Association (NATA) staff along with representatives of the fractional ownership and aircraft management industries met with representatives of France's Civil Aviation Inspector General's office to discuss the economic and safety regulations applicable to fractional program aircraft, in particular US-registered fractional aircraft that are operated internationally.

"NATA commends the French for their efforts to learn about the various aspects of aircraft ownership in the United States, prior to imposing any restrictions on fractional aircraft," stated NATA president James K. Coyne.  "The European community is facing the same dilemmas regarding the proper safety and economic regulation of fractionally-owned aircraft that were faced just a few years ago in the United States." 

While the US has resolved concerns related to the regulation of fractional program aircraft and deemed them to be private aircraft operations, it remains a controversial subject in Europe where, traditionally, different standards have applied to aircraft ownership.

During the meetings, NATA reiterated that, while the French government will ultimately reach its own decisions for regulating any fractional programs that are established in France, ensuring the continued operation of US-registered fractional aircraft abroad represents a substantial positive economic impact for France and all European nations and should be encouraged, not restricted.

"It is our ultimate goal to help create an international environment that ensures freedom of movement for all types of aircraft owners, including fractional and managed aircraft," said Coyne.  "We welcome this opportunity to work in a cooperative environment to resolve this complex issue and look forward to continuing to build our relationship with French aviation leaders."

FMI: www.nata-online.org