Social dumping at the expense of aviation safety will come to an end. Today, the European Parliament’s transport and tourism committee voted for a new regulation that will increase pressure on irresponsible aviation providers. It will also increase the competences of the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) so that it can monitor precarious employment situations due to their relevance to flight safety.

MEP Ismail Ertug, S&D spokesperson on transport, said:  

“We were able to push through our core demand and therefore create the conditions for better employment and more safety in aviation. Employers who apply social dumping and therefore risk aviation safety will face more pressure.

“Another important innovation is the proposal to introduce digital black boxes. Currently black boxes often go missing after a plane crash and their evaluation can take months. The public funds these costly searches. Digitalisation would mean that information is accessible in real-time. It would help to improve reconnaissance or even avoid crashes. We urge member states and the industry to apply this modern approach.”

Regarding regulation of drones, MEP Gabriele Preuss, S&D spokesperson on air travel safety, added:

“Finally, European standards are being created. Our position on the safe use of drones is non-negotiable. National lawmakers will have to follow our lead. This means that there will be a driver’s license and a registration obligation for certain types of drone.”

With today’s vote, the mandate for the negotiations with member states has been decided. The member states’ position will be expected at the Council meeting of transport ministers in December.