The International Air Transport Association (IATA) urged the National Congress of Brazil to observe global best practices should it undertake an amendment of Brazil’s laws regarding air crew duty and flight time requirements.
IATA emphasized that duty and flight time, like other aviation-related activities, should be aligned with the well-established provisions of the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO). ICAO provides global standards and guidance for the regulation of fatigue management based on scientific principles which ensure proper flight crew rest and optimal performance. In the cases where governments wish to intervene further, programs such as the Fatigue Risk Management System (FRMS), supported by Safety Management System (SMS) protocols maintain safety in an efficient operating framework. These programs are supported by IATA, ICAO and the International Federation of Air Line Pilot"™ Associations.
"Safety is the number one priority of the airline industry. Current regulations regarding flight crew duty times are based on extensive research, industry experience and best practices. The changes being proposed will not improve safety, but will make Brazil less competitive on the global stage," said Peter Cerda, IATA"™s Regional Vice President for the Americas.
Smarter Regulation
Another ICAO best practice is for regulators and lawmakers to maintain continuous and open consultation with all aviation stakeholders concerning decisions relevant to the air transport industry. And while smart regulation of safety has made air transportation the safest mode of transport known to humankind, its success has hinged upon delivering clearly defined, measurable regulatory objectives in the least burdensome manner possible.
"Brazil is at a crossroads. The country is well-positioned to continue reaping the economic rewards of a healthy aviation industry. For that to occur, however, all stakeholders need to work together to deliver smarter regulation that ensures safety and sustainability for the country"™s airlines. Aviation simply cannot deliver maximum value to the economy in countries that do not observe global best practices and ensure a level playing field for air carriers," Cerda added…
