Story ID: 
EASA Safety Seminar Explores Future Technologies
By: Gordon Gilbert
Caption: Among the discussion topics are unmanned air systems, 3D printed parts, cybersecurity, remote air traffic towers and flight-sharing apps.
Word Count: 170
EASA’s upcoming annual safety conference, to be held October 25 and 26 in Bratislava, Slovakia, will focus on future technologies and innovative business models. Technological changes in all aviation domains will be covered at the event, including manufacturing, operations and ATC. Among the discussion topics are unmanned air systems, 3D printed parts, cybersecurity, remote air traffic control towers and new business models, such as flight-sharing apps.

The aim of the conference is to explore new technologies via discussion panels and their “impact on safety regulations and the pressure for change they exert on industry and regulators.” One panel discussion scheduled will address whether general aviation is the incubator for new technologies in engines and avionics, with the panelists expected to emphasize that it is “important for rules not to restrict innovation and to remain open for new technologies.”

Another panel aims to bring about a “more flexible and proportionate approach to regulating the industry through targeted actions on general aviation operations and in aircraft certification.”