EASA and EUROCONTROL Update Air Controller Training
A joint workshop aligns European aviation authorities on new competency-based training standards for air traffic controllers.
Updated on Oct. 30, 2026 in Air Travel
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EASA and EUROCONTROL recently hosted a workshop at the EUROCONTROL Aviation Learning Centre to prepare authorities for upcoming regulatory changes. These updates establish new competency-based training requirements for air traffic controllers across the European Union.
Why it matters
The transition to competency-based training aims to enhance systemic safety and efficiency across the European network. Providing guidance now helps National Competent Authorities manage the shift in regulatory oversight before the new rules take effect.
New competency-based training requirements are set to become mandatory on January 1, 2029. Current training courses must continue to comply with European Regulation (EU) 2015/340 until the end of 2028.
The players
EASA
The European Union Aviation Safety Agency is responsible for civil aviation safety standards throughout the European Union.
EUROCONTROL
The European Organisation for the Safety of Air Navigation works to coordinate air traffic management across the continent.
The details
Workshop participants from aviation authorities and training organizations shared strategies to address regulatory oversight challenges. EASA and EUROCONTROL now intend to develop a generic introductory online course on training principles for inspectors.
Timeline
October 27-28, 2026: EASA and EUROCONTROL held the training workshop.
End of 2028: Deadline for current training course compliance.
January 1, 2029: New training requirements become mandatory.
Travel Outlook
This regulatory shift updates the framework established by European Regulation (EU) 2015/340 to modernize air traffic management. The industry is currently moving toward a more uniform implementation of competency standards across the European network.
These regulatory changes primarily impact training organizations and operational units tasked with meeting the 2029 mandate. Aviation professionals should monitor updates from their National Competent Authorities to ensure compliance with the new training principles.
The takeaway
The move toward competency-based training represents a shift in how aviation authorities maintain safety and oversight standards. Training organizations should prepare for systemic changes by aligning their current courses with the upcoming 2029 regulatory deadline.
Further reading
For broader context on current industry standards, visit Air Travel.
Source note: This article includes information reported by EASA.
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