EASA Proposes Rules for Electronic Aircrew Licenses

EASA is stepping up efforts to introduce electronic licenses for aviation personnel, including pilots. The agency issued its NPA 2024-08 notice of proposed rulemaking on December 19, calling for industry comments on establishing the new electronic personnel licenses (EPLs) in European Union law.

The new rules would cover how the aviation safety regulator will issue, display, validate, and verify licenses on mobile devices, while also allowing them to be available in hard-copy paper or plastic format. The use of EPLs will be optional, but EASA member states will be required to recognize them, not only if issued by European Union countries, but also by ICAO contracting states.

The proposed rulemaking amendments, which cover some necessary legislative changes, also deal with how issues including security, confidentiality, and data protection for EPLs will be assured. They are intended to ensure the interoperability of the new licenses between different states and for them to adhere to ICAO standards and recommended practices.

The new EPL system promises some easing of requirements, such as removing the need to include a photograph of the holder, a seal or stamp from an issuing authority, and a holder’s signature (except in the case of maintenance technicians).