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FAA, EASA Look To Tighten Cooperation
By: Kerry Lynch
Caption: The regulatory authorities pledged to further collaboration in a range of areas
Word Count: 304
The FAA and EASA have outlined a multifaceted initiative to collaborate on ways to address the challenges of the rapidly evolving industry and speed of new technologies. Announced yesterday, the pledge was detailed as part of the 2024 FAA-EASA International Aviation Safety Conference held this week in Washington, D.C.
EASA executive director Florian Guillermet cited the urgent need for sustainable technologies and the swift advancements in areas such as AI. “It is more important than ever that international aviation regulators work together to accompany the changes and ensure safety needs are always met.”
The agencies agreed to prioritize cooperative efforts at all working levels and strengthen their focus on information exchange surrounding safety oversight and other topical areas; optimize resources and encourage their technical experts to work together; deepen collaboration of certification activities and operational frameworks for new technologies; expand cooperation on rulemaking efforts; promote sustainable initiates; ensure their bilateral goals on certification are met; and work together on analysis and mitigation of systemic safety risks.
“As we look to the next decade, establishing a unified strategic direction based on information sharing and collaboration with our international partners will meet the needs of our global aviation system of the future,” said FAA Administrator Mike Whitaker.
Aviation groups welcomed the commitment and in a joint statement said, “The transatlantic partnership is foundational to a safe, efficient, and sustainable global aviation industry.”
The associations signing the statement —including the General Aviation Manufacturers Association, Airlines 4 America, Airlines 4 Europe, and the Aerospace Industries Association— added, “It is more critical than ever that the EU and U.S. ensure a coordinated approach with these priorities in mind.” They cited priorities of improving safety and efficiency, enhancing safety, supporting innovation, and preparing for the workforce for the future.