Highlights

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As a mode of transport, flying is one of the safest. To make it even safer, any accident must be investigated thoroughly and independently. New EU rules for the investigation of civil aviation accidents were approved by transport ministers meeting at the Council on 11 March.

At present, member states' safety investigation authorities cooperate with each other on an informal basis. The draft regulation will formalise this cooperation by creating a European network of civil aviation safety investigation authorities. The network will facilitate the exchange of information and sharing of resources.

The new rules clarify the roles of various actors. For example, the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) and the Commission will be involved in cooperation and information-sharing with the member states.

The draft regulation lays down the rights and obligations of safety investigators. It also provides for protection of evidence and sensitive information. Each member state will have to have a national plan for assistance to victims and their families.

Responsibility for safety investigations remains with the national authorities. The sole objective of such actions should be to find the cause in order to prevent future accidents, not to lay blame and apportion liability.

The regulation will be adopted jointly by the Council and the European Parliament in accordance with the ordinary legislative procedure.

More information:
Webcast of Council debate
Webcast of press conference
Council Press Release
European Aviation Safety Policy on Europa