On Tuesday 21 February in a press release, the European Transport Workers’ Federation (ETF) welcomed the own initiative report on the “aviation strategy” adopted earlier in the month (see EUROPE 11727) due to the focus reserved for the social dimension.
They particularly appreciate the request for clarification of the “principal place of business” and that the expansion in the scope of the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) to examine new commercial models and jobs for guaranteeing passenger safety.
The organisation also welcomes the fact that the report emphasises respect for the principles of fair competition between the European Union and third countries.
The strengthening the social section, as put forward by the rapporteur for the opinion, Ole Christensen (S&D, Denmark) on the social affairs committee provoked a number of heated exchanges at the European Parliament and a delay in the vote at the transport and tourism committee (see EUROPE 11683).
The unions are there for now calling on the European Commission to introduce a more robust social dimension as part of its aviation strategy. (Original version in French by Pascal Hansens)