1 December 2008

The French Minister in charge of transport, Mr. Dominique Bussereau, today visited the Agency’s headquarters in the context of the French EU Presidency. In talks with EASA Executive Director Patrick Goudou and the Agency’s senior management, Mr. Bussereau lent his support to the Agency and its future development.

The Minister noted: "It was very important for me to visit the European Aviation Safety Agency ahead of the Council of EU Transport Ministers that I will chair on 9 December, and during which we will examine the framework for the extension of the Agency’s competences. This extension will allow us to continue to improve and harmonise aviation safety in Europe".

Mr. Goudou said: “I am very pleased that Minister Bussereau has come to Cologne to see the Agency in operation and talk to its senior management. This is a clear sign of support of the French EU Presidency and the French government”.

Pictures are available on request.

This press release is also available in French.

Note to editors:
The European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) was set up by the EU in 2003 to promote the highest common standards of safety and environmental protection in civil aviation. Based in Cologne, the Agency currently employs nearly 500 experts and administrators from all over Europe.