EASA publishes Opinion with initial pilot licensing requirements to address loss of control in-flight (LOC-I)

The European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) published an Opinion proposing amendments to the training requirements for initial pilot licensing to prevent loss of control in flight situations.

The so called “upset prevention and recovery training” (UPRT) requirements aim to make pilots more resilient in coping with unexpected aircraft upset situations. The requirements are based on International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) standards and recommended practices and have been developed by EASA in consultation with leading industry experts.

Patrick Ky, EASA Executive Director, said: “This is an important milestone in addressing loss of control in flight, which remains a major area of concern for aviation safety”.

The proposed requirements are expected to be adopted by the European Commission by 8 April 2018. It was agreed with the Member States on 28 June 2017 to provide an additional transition period until 8 April 2019 to implement these UPRT provisions.