EU Warns Greece Over Air Traffic Management Non-compliance

Photo © Copyright European Union

The European Commission recently raised concerns regarding Greece’s non-compliance with two key EU regulations in air traffic management.

The issues, which involve the failure to implement performance-based navigation (PBN) procedures at airports and the lack of aircraft identification technology for air traffic control, are critical for ensuring safety, efficiency, and interoperability in Greece’s airspace. As the country faces mounting pressure to address these deficiencies, the Commission has initiated infringement procedures, urging Greece to act swiftly or face potential legal consequences.

Failure to implement Performance-Based Navigation (PBN) procedures

The European Commission has sent a reasoned opinion to Greece for its failure to implement the necessary performance-based navigation (PBN) procedures at Greek airports, as required under Commission Implementing Regulations (EU) 2018/1048 and 2018/1139.

PBN procedures optimize air traffic service routes and instrument approach procedures, delivering benefits such as improved safety, increased capacity, reduced environmental impact, and enhanced cost-efficiency.

Currently, landing operations at Greek airports remain safe, but the implementation of PBN approach procedures would provide pilots with vertical guidance, further enhancing safety during landings.

The Commission initially sent a letter of formal notice to Greece in April 2024, but the response received in June failed to provide satisfactory evidence of progress. As a result, the Commission has issued a reasoned opinion, giving Greece two months to implement the necessary measures. If Greece does not comply, the Commission may refer the case to the Court of Justice of the European Union.

Failure to implement Aircraft Identification Technology

Photo source: Hellenic Civil Aviation Authority (HCAA)

In a separate case, the Commission has also sent a letter of formal notice to Greece for failing to implement the required aircraft identification technology, mandated by EU Regulation 2017/373. This technology is crucial for enhancing surveillance services and improving the efficiency of air traffic control by enabling more precise tracking of aircraft.

Despite an agreement in 2020 between the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) and the Hellenic Civil Aviation Authority (HCAA) to install the necessary radar systems, Greece has not yet implemented the required capabilities.

According to the Commission, the absence of this technology hampers Greece’s ability to track aircraft accurately, and the lack of interoperability with other EU Member States’ radar systems limits Greece’s airspace capacity, especially during peak summer months.

As with the PBN procedures, Greece’s response to the Commission’s request for a timeline on implementation was deemed unsatisfactory, prompting the Commission to issue a formal notice. Greece now has two months to address the shortcomings, or it may face further legal action.

EU calls for swift action

These two cases highlight the ongoing challenges Greece faces in aligning its air traffic management systems with EU regulations. The Commission is emphasizing the need for Greece to take swift and decisive action to implement both PBN procedures and aircraft identification technology. With higher levels of air traffic expected in the coming years, particularly during peak travel seasons, these improvements are essential for ensuring the safety, efficiency, and sustainability of Greece’s airspace.

Failure to act on these issues may result in Greece facing further legal steps, including potential referral to the Court of Justice of the European Union. The Commission is calling on Greece to prioritize these matters and ensure that necessary changes are made promptly to maintain a safe, efficient, and interoperable air traffic system.