The European Union Aviation Safety Agency’s Annual Safety Conference emphasized blending human expertise with advanced technology to enhance aviation safety standards.

The European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) hosted its Annual Safety Conference for 2024 under the theme “Safety, Technology, and the Human Dimension,” emphasizing the pivotal role of well-trained personnel in ensuring aviation safety. The event also underscored the prudent application of technology to further enhance operational safety standards.

A key highlight of the conference was EASA’s detailed explanation of its stance on “extended Minimum Crew Operations” (eMCO), a concept that envisions a single pilot in the cockpit during specific flight phases. Manufacturers presented advancements in “smart cockpit” technologies designed to reduce crew workload, improve decision-making, enhance data management, and detect pilot fatigue or incapacitation. The panel addressing eMCO emphasized the need to test and evaluate these technologies while maintaining the current two-pilot standard to ensure safety remains uncompromised.

The role of technology in boosting aviation safety was further discussed in a dedicated panel session. Experts agreed on the necessity of introducing cockpit enhancements gradually, ensuring that safety improvements are validated before considering operational changes. The overarching principle remains that any technological innovation in aviation must unequivocally enhance safety.

Two panels explored longer-term strategies to mitigate safety risks. One panel focused on the challenges posed by interference with Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS) in conflict zones, where jamming and spoofing can compromise navigation. While pilot vigilance currently mitigates these risks, the panel advocated for resilient, system-level technological solutions to strengthen decision-making processes.

The second panel examined human factors in runway safety, referencing a tragic runway collision at Tokyo’s Haneda Airport on January 2, 2024, which claimed five lives. Discussions revolved around whether human involvement is a vulnerability or strength in preventing such incidents. Panelists concluded that leveraging technology to support human decision-making could significantly reduce runway incursions and similar accidents.

The remaining panels focused on the human element in aviation safety and its intersection with societal expectations. Environmental concerns emerged as a major driver for technological innovation, with efforts to reduce emissions and noise pollution aligned with European Union climate goals. While aviation contributes less than 4% of global greenhouse gas emissions, the urgency to limit its impact remains critical.

Another focal point was the necessity of a well-trained workforce to meet the demands of a rapidly evolving industry. Panelists stressed the importance of attracting new talent to aviation, particularly individuals equipped with the advanced skill sets required to operate and manage emerging technologies.

The conference brought together a diverse array of speakers, including representatives from national aviation authorities, industry leaders, pilot associations, EU organizations, and other experts. Held in Budapest, Hungary, from October 30 to 31, 2024, under the Hungarian EU Presidency, the event attracted approximately 220 participants, fostering collaboration and dialogue on critical issues shaping the future of aviation safety.

With a clear emphasis on integrating human expertise with cutting-edge technology, the EASA Annual Safety Conference reaffirmed its commitment to making aviation safer, more sustainable, and resilient for generations to come.

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