92001E0330

WRITTEN QUESTION E-0330/01

by Alexandros Alavanos (GUE/NGL) to the Commission

(13 February 2001)

Subject: Delays by the Civil Aviation Authority in implementing international standards

According to Greek press reports, experts of the JAA (European Joint Aviation Authorities) have found that there have been long delays by the Civil Aviation Authority in promoting and implementing international standards and regulations as part of the flight procedures (JAR-OPS), owing to the fact that the Greek Ministry of Transport has failed to press ahead with the legislative framework for the modernisation and incorporation of these standards.

1. Can the Commission confirm these reports? If so, what measures does it intend to take?

2. Could this problem affect the proper functioning of the new airport of Spata and the beginning of operations there?

Answer given by Mrs de Palacio on behalf of the Commission

(10 April 2001)

The Commission has indeed been informed of the doubts expressed within the international aviation community as regards the abilities of those Greek authorities responsible for air safety to assume their responsibilities in a satisfactory manner. Moreover that question has already been put by Mr Hatzidakis, a Member of the European Parliament (P-3217/00).

This is why it has initiated an infringement procedure against the Greek Government for poor implementation of the provisions of the regulations adopted by the Community in respect of aircraft maintenance.

As regards the other areas, such as that of the aviation operations highlighted by the Honourable Member, where there are still no common measures, the lady Vice-President of the Commission responsible for transport matters has drawn the attention of the Greek Government's Ministry of Transport to the shortcomings pinpointed by both the Joint Aviation Authorities and the Civil Aviation Organisation and the American Aviation Administration. In his reply the Minister stressed that the shortcomings were minor in extent and could in no case affect air traffic safety. Moreover, he insisted that, since they had been confirmed, appropriate action had been taken to remedy these quickly. The Commission has taken note of this.

However, at this stage, nothing in the comments of which the Commission is aware enables one to think that the placing in service and the operation of Spata airport could be affected.