EASA SIB 2022-06: Risks Emerging During Ramp-up of Aviation Activities

What to do

Affected stakeholders such as national competent authorities, aerodrome operators, and air operators should enhance collaboration with service providers and state agencies, conduct specific safety risk assessments, and foster a positive safety culture encouraging occurrence reporting. They should expedite administrative processes like airport ID issuance and carefully plan crew rosters considering operational delays to minimize fatigue. Oversight authorities should prioritize monitoring flight time limitations and ensure adherence to safety regulations. No specific compliance deadlines are stated.

Summary

EASA Safety Information Bulletin 2022-06 is a safety information bulletin addressing risks emerging during the ramp-up of aviation activities in Europe following the COVID-19 pandemic. It highlights challenges faced by aerodrome and air operators due to workforce shortages impacting ground services and operational efficiency. The bulletin does not target specific aircraft or engine types but focuses on operational and safety risks related to ground handling and crew fatigue.

What changed

This new bulletin introduces recommendations to mitigate safety and operational risks arising from rapid traffic recovery and workforce shortages at European airports. It emphasizes collaboration among stakeholders, enhanced safety risk management, expedited administrative procedures, and careful management of flight time limitations to address delays and fatigue. The bulletin does not impose mandatory requirements but provides guidance to improve safety and operational reliability.

Why it matters

The bulletin matters because the rapid recovery of air traffic has strained ground services and increased operational disruptions, which can lead to safety risks such as crew fatigue and reduced service quality. Aviation professionals, including operators and aerodrome managers, need to be aware of these emerging risks to maintain safety standards and operational efficiency. Compliance teams must monitor and manage these risks proactively to avoid negative impacts on flight operations and passenger experience.