People at the centre of aviation
Florian Guillermet, Executive Director of EASA, emphasised in his opening speech that people will remain the central factor in aviation in the coming decades. However, with the increasing complexity of modern aviation systems, technology must be designed in such a way that it supports people rather than replacing them.
"It is our responsibility to consider how technological developments such as artificial intelligence can support people to make aviation safer," emphasised Guillermet. At the same time, it is important to continuously check whether air transport safety has actually reached its highest possible level.
Extended Minimum Crew Operations (eMCO): A controversial concept
One of the main topics of the conference was the concept of "Extended Minimum Crew Operations (eMCO)which provides for the possibility of operating certain flight phases with just one pilot. Manufacturers are currently working on the development of a so-called "intelligent cockpit" that integrates advanced technologies such as automation, decision support and monitoring systems. The aim is to reduce the pilot's workload, recognise fatigue and better manage critical situations.
However, EASA made it clear that such innovations will only be authorised if they can demonstrate a clear safety benefit. It was emphasised that new technologies must first be tested within the existing two-pilot operation before a reduction in crew size is considered. Safety remains the top priority.
Technology to overcome current and future challenges
In various discussion panels, the conference shed light on how technology can contribute to overcoming specific challenges in aviation:
- Protection against GNSS interference:
Interference with global navigation systems (GNSS), particularly in the vicinity of conflict zones, poses an increasing risk. Currently, safety is based on sensitising pilots to possible interference from jamming or spoofing. In the long term, however, the need for more resilient technical solutions was emphasised in order to ensure navigation independently of external interference. - Runway safety:
The tragic accident at Haneda Airport in Tokyo in early 2024, in which five people lost their lives in a collision on the runway, highlighted the need for technical improvements. It was discussed whether human error is the "weakest link" or a decisive protective factor. The use of technologies such as more precise warning systems and automated decision support systems was unanimously seen as a key element in preventing such incidents.
Social expectations as a driver of innovation
In addition to safety issues, the conference also highlighted the influence of social expectations on technological developments. The pressure to reduce emissions and achieve the EU's climate targets is driving innovation in aviation. While aviation only causes around 4 % of global CO₂ emissions according to "Our World in Data", the challenge remains to further minimise its environmental impact.
Noise reduction and the development of low-emission propulsion systems have been identified as key objectives that not only fulfil regulatory requirements, but are also intended to strengthen public confidence in aviation.
The importance of well-trained people
One of the main themes was the need to train the next generation of aviation experts. While technological advances require new skills, the human dimension remains essential. The success of aviation continues to depend on a well-trained workforce in areas such as maintenance, flight control and operations.
Florian Guillermet summarised: "It is crucial that we invest not only in technology, but also in the people who operate and improve it."
Conclusion: Technology as a partner for people
The conference clearly showed that technology is not intended to replace people, but to support them. Clever integration of innovations such as artificial intelligence, automation and improved navigation systems can further increase safety in aviation. Ultimately, however, humans remain the most important factor in this complex system.
The EASA Annual Safety Conference 2024 provided important impetus for the future of aviation and defined a clear course: Technology and human expertise must work hand in hand to ensure even safer and more sustainable aviation.
Source references:
Flieger.News
