For years now we have been trying to convince the European Commission and EASA to use the input from scientific research and the advice from fatigue experts when drafting the new FTL rules. During the European Parliament Hearing on 18 June, it became painfully clear that despite our efforts we have failed to convince them about the importance of solid and sound scientifically-based rules. Yet, we have also heard a powerful message from the scientists that if EU decision-makers vote in favour, they will be voting against scientific advice.
A Parliamentary Motion adopted a week later by the Dutch Parliament, requesting to limit the flight duty time to a maximum of 10hrs during the night, as recommended by scientists, gives us hope that there are still some decision-makers who do listen carefully to scientists.
One of our Member Associations has already submitted a complaint with the European Ombudsman about maladministration of EASA’s FTL rulemaking and the Agency’s failure to take scientific recommendations into account. This complaint shows our Member Associations are deeply concerned and will continue this battle for safe aviation in Europe. So will we as ECA.
This month, the Ryanair Pilot Group (RPG) has also reached an important milestone: pilots have elected an Interim Council, whose task will be to help Ryanair pilots improve internal communications within the RPG and enter into professional and meaningful negotiations with their company.
And because we believe in discussions, consultations and negotiations between social partners, ECA has always been an active partner to EU’s Social Dialogue Committee for Civil Aviation. It is our great pleasure to announce that ECA Professional Affairs Director, Jon Horne, has been elected as Vice-chairman of the Committee. I am sure Jon will be seen as an important asset to the deliberations of the Social Dialogue.
Last but not least, as we are approaching the holiday season, I would like to wish everybody a pleasant holiday with the knowledge that when you take an aircraft our members are always “Piloting Safety”!
by Nico Voorbach
