ECA FTL Meeting – Summary

Two of BeCA’s active members recenty participated in the FTL (Flight Time Limitations) meeting at the ECA HQ. The meeting began with a tour de table featuring representatives from airlines across Europe. Several common challenges quickly emerged:

• FSAGs (Fatigue Safety Action Groups) are coming under pressure in multiple airlines – not only from management, but surprisingly also from other sides, where operational data is being used to push non-FTL-related agendas.
• Incorrect application of Commander’s Discretion remains a major concern, with reports of pilot pressure and even exceedances of the legal limits.
• Issues with OFF days and roster stability continue to affect fatigue management and predictability.

The ECA provided an overview of the second FTL Effectiveness Study, an in-depth analysis focusing on operational edge cases. Despite clear findings, EASA does not currently appear inclined to translate the results into regulatory changes. Meanwhile, a VC survey revealed that 93% of pilots admit to napping on the flight deck — a striking indicator of fatigue levels in daily operations.

Another key topic was NPA 2024-106, the draft FTL regulation for business jet operations. ECA is closely monitoring this file, as several elements lack scientific backing and could have a spill-over effect on commercial air transport (CAT) operations — potentially weakening the scientific foundation of future CAT FTL legislation.

Finally, ECA is preparing for EASA’s Best Intervention Strategy (B.I.S.) 2025–2027. This long-term strategic roadmap sets the priorities for the coming years and therefore lays the groundwork for possible future FTL rule changes. It is crucial that the pilot community is involved from the very beginning.

Thank you Didier and Bert for representing Belgian pilots at European level.