Civil aviation: common rules and creation of the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA)

The Commission can accept the 20 amendments adopted by the European Parliament at second reading as they are the result of the compromise reached between the three institutions.

The main changes concern the amendment of the definition of complex aeroplane, the ex ante notification of flight time limitation schemes, the establishment of a system of fines and the selection of members of the Management Board on the basis of their experience and commitment to act in the interest of the Agency.

As part of the compromise solution, the Commission has found it necessary to make three statements:

• Fees and charges: the Commission states that, when amending Commission Regulation (EC) 593/2007 on the fees and charges levied by the European Aviation Safety Agency, it will pay due attention to the specific situation of SMEs, and, in particular, to the impact that the level of the fees and charges may have on their economic viability, whilst continuing to ensure both compliance with the principle of non-discrimination and that the revenue from the certification activity of the Agency remains sufficient to cover the full cost of the services delivered.
• Complex motor-powered aircraft: as regards the definition of complex motor-powered aircraft, the Commission will assess the economic impact on markets of the inclusion of aeroplanes equipped with turbojet engines or more than one turboprop engine in such a definition and will request the European Aviation Safety Agency to monitor their safety performance.
• Annex II point e (ultra light aircraft): the Commission will request the European Aviation Safety Agency to conduct formal consultations of all stakeholders and to submit a reasoned opinion for a change to Annex II, point e, aimed at including in it ultra light aircraft of less than 600 kg, if necessary.

As a result, the Commission has amended its proposal in accordance with the above.