The provisional agreement reached by MEPs and the Belgian Presidency on Single European Sky reform to optimise EU airspace management in the early hours of yesterday morning March 6 has had mixed reaction from aviation groups.
Provisional agreement was reached at the EU trilogue on the Single European Sky (SES), aiming to improve the performance, organisation and management of European airspace.
The deal theoretically aims to enhance flight efficiency, reduce delays, and contribute to the EU’s climate neutrality goals.
The agreement introduces a new framework for air navigation services with binding performance targets and incentives.
Provisions are made for greener flights, more competition in the air navigation services market, and overall progress towards a more integrated and sustainable European airspace. But some groups have expressed disappointment at the level of progress reached and have described it as a missed opportunity.
Ourania Georgoutsakou, Managing Director of Airlines for Europe (A4E) said “A4E is currently digesting the final agreement on the Single European Sky (SES) which was reached in the early hours of this morning. We have been consistent in calling for a SES that delivers for airlines, passengers and the planet. On first look, it seems this agreement is still some way off from this. This will not be the end of A4E’s efforts to achieve a seamless, digital and truly Single European Sky that will reduce delays, improve efficiency and reduce carbon emissions.”
Montserrat Barriga, ERA’s Director General described it as a missed opportunity for European regional airlines: “ERA has continuously recognised the need for an ambitious and seamless Single European Sky, one that delivers for our airlines, our passengers and the environment. We are therefore disappointed that the final agreement appears to fall short of meeting these requirements. At first glance, several concessions appear to have been made which unfortunately reduces the likelihood of the substantial improvements that we have pushed for in terms of airspace capacity, operational efficiency and sustainability. It’s clear that further efforts will be required to address today’s aviation challenges effectively”.
