Pilots union BALPA has ‘cautiously’ welcomed reports that the Government intends for the UK to remain under European safety standards post-Brexit.
The Government is reportedly proposing to the EU that the UK remain a member of the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), which is currently responsible aviation licensing, regulation and safety.
But BALPA said it’s not clear how this will square with the Government’s ‘red line’ regarding the jurisdiction of the European Court of Justice.
BALPA general secretary Brian Strutton said: "We would welcome any move to give much needed clarity and certainty to the aviation sector. We therefore ask Government to confirm that staying part of EASA is indeed its policy. Although EASA isn’t perfect – we have disagreed with them over levels of flying hours for pilots, for example – it is imperative that the ‘no deal’ threat is lifted urgently.
"Membership of EASA is only one element that needs to be resolved. We also need clarity on air transport rights in the EU to ensure that UK airlines can continue to operate and thrive across the continent.
"The Government needs to confirm that this is indeed a first step on the road to certainty, and do so quickly."
