27th European Regional Meeting calls for a safe, resilient and sustainable aviation system

European Member Associations founded the International Federation of Air Traffic Controllers Associations in 1961, allowing the European aviation system and - now - SESAR to benefit from the global perspective and expertise that IFATCA brings through fifty years of providing advice and assistance in the development and maintenance of safe and orderly air traffic management systems.

The economic environment is used to make unwarranted and indefensible attacks on air traffic controllers and our profession, said Željko Oreški, IFATCA Executive Vice-President Europe.

However, air traffic controllers remain focused on finding solutions to the real obstacles that prevent the public from experiencing a truly seamless aviation system that is safe, resilient and sustainable.

Many industry partners contributed to the meeting with well-received presentations. Organisations present included EUROCONTROL, the European Commission, European Aviation Safety Agency, European Cockpit Association, Air Traffic Controllers European Unions Coordination, and others.

IFATCA is as committed and capable as ever to work pragmatically with our industry partners, regional and international organisations, fellow professional organisations to create a future that works for us all and, more importantly for the travelling public, said IFATCA President and CEO, Alexis Brathwaite in his opening address.

Lack of a Just Culture sometimes leading to criminal prosecution, no real or committed collaboration between employers and employees, single person operations, erosion or annulment of negotiated working conditions! These are just some of the specific issues identified in countries such as Belgium, France, Greece, Iceland, Ireland, Romania and Spain that create real and significant impediments to safety in aviation. Pragmatic and sustainable change is only possible in Europe with true collaboration among all stakeholders, including air traffic controllers. Granting Air Traffic Control Associations a voice at the decision making level would demonstrate true commitment on the part of European governments in providing the public with the standard of air travel they deserve.