EasyJet suspends ‘Snapchat’ pilots
Two EasyJet pilots have been suspended after, ‘Snapchat’ videos appeared on social media. Posted by one of the pilots, the videos show the flight crew interacting with animated Snapchat characters whilst in cruising flight. An EasyJet spokesperson said: “Whilst at no point was the safety of the passengers compromised, this falls short of the high standards EasyJet expects of its pilots.” By Rob...
Regulatory Roundabout
08 April 2018 was supposed to be a key date for adoption of new pilot training and licensing regulations across Europe, but procedural delays at the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) have meant that most of these regulations are now being rolled back and National Aviation Authorities are having to postpone their implementation plans. For individual pilots, the largest impact is the requirement to hold an EASA PPL (also known as a...
FASVIG Gets Funding to Continue Airspace Work
Following its unsuccessful bid for continuation funding from the FAS Investment Board in November 2017, the Future Airspace Strategy VFR Implementation Group (FASVIG) has now received a reprieve after its funding bid for 21 month’s work was submitted and accepted. The FASVIG team presented the outline plan for this new programme of work to stakeholders on 21 March. In addition to increased GA communications and engagement, the FASVIG...
Transponder Phraseology?
Report Text: I called ATC asking for a Basic Service. I was given the QNH which I entered into my altimeter; Sky Demon and GPS confirmed the same altitude – 2400ft. After approximately 4 minutes I was called by ATC warning me that I was about to enter their controlled airspace at 2600ft! (controlled airspace minimum 2500ft.) I informed them that my instruments confirmed that my altitude was 2400ft. ATC asked to change to Mode...
First Drone-Caused Aircraft Accident?!
According to media reports, a helicopter crashed near Charleston South Carolina, whilst avoiding a drone. If these reports prove to be accurate, this will be the first drone-related aircraft accident. It is reported that the helicopter was involved in an instructional flight when, “a white ‘DJI Phantom quad-copter drone’ came close to the helicopter.” The instructor took control of the helicopter and attempted to avoid the drone, but...
EASA Give Automatic Validation the Green Light and Reduce MPL Conditions
EASA approve automatic validation of Flight Crew Licences and reduction in Multi-crew Pilot Licence (MPL) take-off and landing requirements. ICAO Recognition Introduction of the automatic validation of flight crew licences amendment will allow recognition of the European Flight Crew Licensing Regulations at an ICAO level. The multi-crew pilot licence amendment will allow for a reduction in the number of take-off and landings needed to...
