EASA Delays Reduced-Crew Operations Decision to 2030

The European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) has announced a delay in its decision on reduced-crew operations in air transport, including the  integrating advanced cockpit technologies and the potential adoption of Extended Minimum Crew Operations (eMCO), which could enable single-pilot operations during non-critical phases of flight. The decision timeline has been extended to 2030. 

EASA's revised schedule, detailed in its January 21, 2025 update, pushes back its original 2027 target. The agency plans to conduct a comprehensive review of human-technology interaction and establish a regulatory framework to ensure the safe integration of "smart cockpit" technologies into commercial operations as reported by FlightGlobal. 

According to EASA, these technologies aim to reduce pilot workload, enhance decision-making, and monitor crew performance, alertness, and potential incapacitation. However, their implementation will require rigorous testing before they can be deployed.

“Additional airworthiness requirements, in the form of special conditions, are being developed to ensure the safe integration of advanced cockpit technologies in current operations,” stated EASA. The agency also confirmed its intention to release a final report this year on its evaluation of eMCO and single-pilot operations, a research project that began in late 2021.

The Air Line Pilots Association (ALPA) and other pilot advocacy groups have voiced strong opposition to the proposed changes. “Removing pilots from the flight deck is a dangerous idea. The complexity of modern aircraft operations, coupled with the vital need for redundancy in safety-critical environments, requires maintaining a two-pilot flight deck at all times. We will not back down on that,” said Jason Ambrosi, President, ALPA.

Ambrosi emphasized the critical role pilots play in handling in-flight emergencies and ensuring safety outcomes. ALPA has launched a global awareness campaign, “Safety Starts with 2,” to advocate for retaining two pilots during all phases of flight, even as new technologies are introduced.

“We look forward to partnering with industry stakeholders to ensure that improvements in technology – which are a good thing – do not replace pilots or allow operators to reduce crew complement,” Ambrosi added.

The European Cockpit Association (ECA) echoed these concerns, attributing the push for reduced-crew operations to commercial interests. In a LinkedIn statement, the ECA declared, “One pilot means less safety, less security. Full stop.” The organization called on regulators to prioritize safety over cost-cutting pressures from manufacturers and airlines. 

“The innovations in cockpit technologies are aimed at enhancing safety and efficiency. However, their introduction must be gradual, preceded by robust service tests, and accompanied by updated airworthiness requirements,” EASA explained.