The European Regions Airline Association (ERA)’s director general, Montserrat Barriga and its president Andrew Kelly met with Henrik Hololei, the European Commission director general for mobility and transport, to discuss the implementation of the aircraft tracking system ADS-B.
The ERA stated it is seeking a prioritised and stepped implementation based on ANSP (Air Navigation Service Provider), airspace user and airport needs, challenges and capabilities rather than a ‘blanket approach’ which they say will create “inefficiencies, disruptions and unnecessary cost impacts for ERA airline members and their passengers”.
The ERA said it supports implementation of ADS-B (Automatic dependent surveillance — broadcast), where there is a clear operational, business or safety benefit or improved customer value.
“ERA airlines provide the regional passenger and cargo connectivity that contributes to the socio-economic lifeblood for Europe,” said Kelly. “ADS-B requires a significant investment for our member airlines and while we agree that it is necessary, we are heartened by Henrik Hololei’s view that there should not be a disproportionate or unnecessary burden on airlines that would in turn impact passengers, business and local economies.”
The ERA suggested that an exemption plan, possibly time-limited, is required to ensure regional connectivity is not negatively affected, and the ERA said it “welcomes Henrik Hololei’s support for this proposal that the issues suggesting exemptions are taken fully into account.
“Exemptions will enable some aircraft, too technically difficult or disproportionately expensive to retrofit, to continue operating in European airspace where there are no identifiable safety benefits before such aircraft are retired or otherwise withdrawn from service.”
