Latest update 29 September 2020
OVERVIEW
Please see the download section on the top right hand corner of this page to read the overview of this section and scroll down the page to read the latest updates on ERA's activities and position.
CONTACT
For further assistance please contact policy.technical@eraa.org
ERA’S POSITION
ERA fully supports the concept of the European air traffic control infrastructure modernisation programme, and works closely with the SESAR Deployment Manager representing Airspace Users on the SDM Consultation Platform and Thematic Sub-Groups however will continue to work with the European Commission, SESAR Joint Undertaking and Eurocontrol both independently, and through the auspices of bodies such as the ICB, AAB and other Airspace User Associations to ensure members interests are represented, and that they remain part of the process.
UPDATE
Latest update 29/09/2020: On 22 September, the European Commission published their proposal to upgrade the Single European Sky regulatory framework, with the primary objective being to modernise European airspace, increase resilience and adapt air traffic management capacity to meet demand as well as ensuring more sustainable and efficient trajectories.
The proposal takes on board the recommendations from the report of the Wise Persons Group (WPG) on the future of the Single European Sky, the Airspace Architecture Study (AAS) as well as technological developments and commitments expressed in the European Green Deal to decarbonise the transport sector (90 per cent reduction in emissions by 2050), aiming to deliver tangible CO2 reductions from the start of 2025.
Several proposals being put forward would appear at first glance to be positive steps, although caution needs to be taken as further scrutiny and consultation with membership will of course be required in order to formulate a concrete position going forward. These include:
- Strengthening the independence of National Supervisory Authorities from Air Navigation Service Providers with regards to overseeing and monitoring of the performance and charging schemes
- Delineation of tasks between the NSAs and National Competent Authorities.
- Procurement of CNS/AIS/ADS/MET and terminal air traffic services under market conditions, and creation of a (voluntary) market for data services.
- Common information services for unmanned aircraft
- New approach to the performance scheme, with performance plans (and binding targets) moving from NSAs to the ANSP as well as plans now being submitted to the Agency (EASA is being proposed as the new administrative function, clearly separated from its safety related tasks) acting as the Performance Review Body rather than Commission.
- Functional Airspace Blocks (FABs) should no longer be regulated, and the obligation for states to formally cooperate within a FAB should be abolished.
- Enhanced role of the Network Manager, review of the network functions and strengthening of the cooperative decision-making processes supporting the implementation of a mandatory Network Operations Plan and binding performance targets.
However, there are a couple of notable areas where members have already voiced some concerns:
The proposal for a common unit rate needs to be further clarified, with particular concern as to how this might be implemented in those states where the unit rate is currently very favourable compared to those of their neighbours and how future growth and demand will influence the setting of such a rate.
Furthermore, a proposed reduction in the reference period from the current five years to a two year period is also an area that needs to be understood as to how this would affect strategic projects, investments and innovations that deliver real tangible Network improvements.
It should also be noted that secondary legislation will be required to address recommendations from the WPG and other relevant stakeholders that have been deemed to require additional detailed and technical assessment. Areas that are considered for secondary legislation include changes to air traffic controller’s ways of working, training and licensing to accommodate a move away from a ‘sector dependant’ towards a sector ‘independent’ approach. This is seen as fundamental to having a more scalable and sustainable European ATM Network.