Brussels, 03/02/2011 (Agence Europe) - As part of the implementation of the European Single Sky programme for modernising air traffic control in Europe, France has aligned its military air traffic controllers' qualifications on European standards applicable to civil aviation. France has subsequently introduced an air traffic controllers' Community license for French Army air traffic controllers (EUROPE 8978). The first ceremony awarding the licences took place on 11 January, according to a press release published on Wednesday 2 February. This licence will now allow air traffic controllers trained in military academies to operate in both civilian and military air management, without having to pass the standard civilian qualification. The Single Sky regulation requires all controllers providing general air-traffic services to have a specific licence recognised by the European Community. The reform also gives the go-ahead for the single aircraft regulation and surveillance authority (military, gendarmerie, customs and general armaments management), la direction de la sécurité aéronautique (DSAE). This has been operational since September and is responsible for awarding flying certificates for state aircraft, air traffic control (military air traffic control) and training flying personnel. (A.By./transl.fl)