Framework for the creation of the single European sky

PURPOSE: To create a framework Regulation for the creation of the single European sky. CONTENT: Heavy delays in arrival times combined with safety concerns relating to over-congestion are the justification for the creation of the single European sky. European air space is currently governed by inter-governmental organisations. Paradoxically, air traffic is not very regulated and is organised around operation constraints laid down by air navigation services providers. There is thus a perceived need to apply common standards applicable to all. This proposed Regulation forms the framework for the establishment of a single European Sky. It does so by: - Proposing a new institutional structure for airspace combined with new working methods. - Setting 2004 as the completion date for the establishment of a single European sky. - Establishing a framework agreement between the European Community and Eurocontrol. The Community would maintain a regulatory role but be assisted by Eurocontrol in the preparation and implementation of legislation. Given that the Commission has neither the resources nor the expertise to consider the more technical aspects related to aviation it will delegate this responsibility to Eurocontrol. Application of the rules will be the responsibility of Member States. In this way a functional separation between national regulators and service providers will be maintained. - Establishing links between the civilian and military authorities. - Establishing a single sky committee. Under this scheme the Commission would retain its right of initiative for the preparation of new regulatory provisions. The single sky committee consisting of national representatives would assist the Commission in this task. - Setting up a consultation body consisting of experts in the field of civil aviation to be drawn from a European pool. - Extending social dialogue mechanisms to air traffic management.�