What makes aviation safe?
EASA certifies aircraft before they are allowed to fly
Every aircraft produced is certified by aviation safety authorities before it is allowed to fly. The certification of an aircraft, part, or product is an independent assessment of its design and a confirmation that it meets standards of safety and environmental protection that have been established over decades. EASA is responsible for certifying all aircraft produced and designed in Europe. The initial level of safety and sustainability is maintained throughout the aircraft’s life cycle and by the certification of any updates to products, parts, and appliances.
EASA monitors aviation safety continuously
All safety risks and issues in aviation, including those related to airports and ground-handling, are closely monitored. Aircraft operators, organisations that maintain aircraft, and other entities in aviation are required to report any safety issues they detect. The reports are analysed to identify any concerns. This continuous monitoring allows for the early detection of potential problems. EASA takes immediate and appropriate action to ensure that the highest safety standards are maintained in all aviation domains, including Conflict Zones.
EASA is at the forefront of aviation innovation, including for sustainability
Technological advances and other developments present solutions as well as challenges for both aviation safety and the environment. On topics such as Artificial Intelligence (AI), Cybersecurity, the decarbonisation of the sector, or new technologies such as drones and Vertical Take-Off and Landing (VTOL) aircraft, EASA is at the forefront of innovation.
EASA constantly reviews safety standards and rules
Maintaining and enhancing the levels of aviation safety and environmental protection requires that rules are continuously improved, based on the latest facts and scientific knowledge. Existing rules need to be adapted for new technologies and to enable innovation, with safety always being the top priority. Safety rules are reviewed and updated in consultation with industry and citizens to ensure that they are fitting to their purpose and needs.
EASA ensures that the same requirements apply across Europe
Through inspections, EASA ensures the consistent application of the environmental standards and aviation safety rules by the national aviation authorities in each EASA Member State. As a resilient agency, EASA provides the authorities with training, implementation support, and advice. Non-European operators flying into Europe are subject to inspections too, ensuring that they meet the same high safety standards as their European counterparts. EASA coordinates these inspections at a European level. In the case of safety violations, appropriate measures are taken by the European Commission.
EASA cooperates closely with other international organisations
Air transport is a cross-border activity by definition. Aviation safety requires a concerted effort by multiple organisations at an international level. EASA works closely together with aviation safety authorities through Bilateral Aviation Safety Agreements (BASAs) and Working Arrangements (WAs), as well as with the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO). EASA also provides technical expertise on-site in other parts of the planet. The Agency is represented in technical panels and working groups to further promote safety on a global scale.
Your safety is our mission
European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA)
EASA was established in 2003 with the mission to provide a high and uniform level of protection for the European citizens.