Single European Sky reform approved by the European Parliament

24-10-24

The European Parliament has approved the Single European Sky reform, a key project that aims to improve air traffic efficiency, reduce pollutant emissions and optimise airspace management across the European Union (EU). After more than a decade of discussions and adjustments, this new legislation aims to put an end to the current fragmentation of European airspace, which has been a source of bottlenecks, flight delays and increased pollution.

The Single European Sky reform aims to unify air traffic control, allowing for smoother and more coordinated management between member countries. Under the current system, each nation manages its own airspace, leading to longer and more congested routes, increasing fuel consumption and carbon dioxide (CO₂) emissions.

The rapporteurs for the reform, Jens Gieseke (European People's Party, Germany) and Johan Danielsson (Socialists and Democrats, Sweden), underlined the many benefits of the new legislation. According to both MEPs, the elimination of bottlenecks, improved safety and punctuality of flights, together with the reduction of emissions, are the major advantages offered by this structural change. In particular, Gieseke stressed that the optimisation of airspace will reduce flight times, which will benefit both airlines and passengers, improving the competitiveness of the sector.

Danielsson remarked that this reform will not only improve sustainability, but also increase the safety of air operations by reducing separate control areas and facilitating better coordination between air traffic controllers from different countries.

The EU Council had already given its approval in September, securing the reform's progress. The new regulations will start to apply 20 days after their official publication, with some provisions to be implemented gradually over the next two years. This phased approach will allow member states to adapt their technological infrastructures and systems to the new requirements, ensuring a smooth transition.

Among the changes that will be seen in the coming months are the digitisation of air traffic control and the creation of a single platform that will allow air operators to obtain the best possible route in real time, thereby optimising the use of airspace and reducing fuel consumption.

One of the main objectives of the SES reform is to contribute to the fight against climate change, in line with the European Green Pact. Air transport, which accounts for around 13% of CO₂ emissions from the transport sector in Europe, has been a key area of concern in efforts to reduce the continent's carbon footprint.

With the implementation of this reform, more direct flight routes and better airspace management are expected to reduce CO₂ emissions by around 10%, which will make a significant contribution to achieving the EU's sustainability goals. Moreover, the reduction in flight times will not only benefit the environment, but will also lead to significant savings in airlines' operating costs.

On the other hand, air traffic efficiency will lead to more punctual flights, reducing delays that affect both passengers and airlines. This will lead to an improvement in service quality and increase the competitiveness of European airlines vis-à-vis other regions of the world.

Challenges and opportunities

While the adoption of the reform represents a significant step forward, implementation will not be without challenges. Some member states may be reluctant to cede control over their airspace, which will require negotiations to ensure a smooth transition. In addition, air traffic controllers' unions have expressed concerns about possible job cuts and the implications that automation and digitisation of the system could have on their working conditions.

However, the benefits outweigh the challenges. The Single European Sky reform will not only improve the sustainability and efficiency of air traffic, but will also boost the modernisation of aviation infrastructure across Europe, providing an opportunity for the aviation sector to adopt new technologies and improve its competitiveness in the global market.

With the adoption of the Single European Sky, the EU is taking a decisive step towards a more efficient, safe and sustainable future in aviation. This initiative is emerging as a reference model for other aviation sectors.