European Aviation Safety Agency
The European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) was established by the European Parliament in September 2003 to act as the aviation safety regulator for the 25 European Union member States. Its main tasks are:
- To assist the European Commission in preparing legislation, and support the Member States and industry in putting the legislation into effect;
- To adopt their own certification specifications and guidance material, conduct technical inspections and issue certificates where centralised action is more efficient;
- To assist the European Commission in monitoring the application of European Community legislation.
EASA's role in aviation safety regulation will grow progressively over the next few years. Its current responsibilities include the setting of airworthiness standards for aircraft, safety standards for organisations and people who are responsible for aircraft design and manufacture, and requirements for maintenance and maintenance training organisations.
EASA will soon assume responsibility for oversight of flight operations, air traffic control and airports. EASA regulations are safety based and are written to express the safety outcome sought.
Further information on EASA can be found at the EASA website.
Safer Skies for European Citizens also has more details on EASA's role.