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European Union

European Commission Regulation on Acceptance of Air Traffic Controller Licenses and Certificates

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

The European Commission has introduced a regulation to facilitate the acceptance of air traffic controller licenses and certificates issued by third countries. The regulation aims to improve air traffic control capacity in the European Union by enabling the recognition of previously issued licenses and certificates from non-EU countries. This move is expected to increase the availability of air traffic controllers, reduce delays, and enhance air navigation service provision.

Key Takeaways:

  • The regulation, COMMISSION DELEGATED REGULATION (EU) 2025/1044, supplements Regulation (EU) 2018/1139 on common rules in the field of civil aviation.
  • The regulation allows Member States to accept air traffic controller licenses and certificates issued by third countries, subject to specific conditions.
  • To be eligible, applicants must meet certain requirements, including being at least 18 years old, holding a valid medical certificate, and demonstrating language proficiency.
  • The regulation also provides for the issue of student air traffic controller licenses to applicants holding valid third-country licenses.
  • Member States may grant credits for training undertaken by holders of third-country air traffic controller licenses.
  • The privileges of accepted certificates are limited to providing instruction and assessment for air traffic controller training organizations certified to provide initial training.

Statistics:

  • The regulation aims to address air traffic controller shortages in the EU.
  • The regulation is expected to increase air traffic control capacity in the EU.
  • The regulation supplements Regulation (EU) 2018/1139, which lays down common rules in the field of civil aviation.

Sources:

  • COMMISSION DELEGATED REGULATION (EU) 2025/1044 (06 Aug 2025)
  • Regulation (EU) 2018/1139 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 4 July 2018 (OJ L 212, 22.8.2018, p. 1, ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/reg/2018/1139/oj)
  • Commission Regulation (EU) 2015/340 of 20 February 2015 (OJ L 63, 6.3.2015, p. 1, ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/reg/2015/340/oj)

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