air traffic management

The ongoing reform of the European Union’s Air Traffic Management (ATM) performance and charging framework has become a central issue in the debate on aviation sustainability and system resilience. In , we highlighted the need for a more balanced and realistic approach to reform - one that safeguards the operational integrity, financial stability, and workforce of the ATM system while contributing meaningfully to environmental objectives. The ETF continues to caution against reforms that prioritise cost-efficiency and traffic growth at the expense of capacity, staffing, and long-term investment, as such an approach risks weakening the very system it seeks to optimise.

In April, the ETF held a series of internal discussions on sustainable aviation, with guests ranging from employers’ groups to environmental NGOs. Some clear-cut themes emerged from the lively debate, building a foundation for the ETF’s future work on the topic.

The ETF calls on MEPs to reject the European Commission’s greenwashing narrative surrounding the proposed Single European Sky reform. The proposal simplifies and oversells the potential positive effects for the environment while deliberately ignoring the reform’s adverse social impacts.

To inform the EU citizens of the current situation of Air Traffic Services and potential consequences for the safety in the skies, Unions and Professional Associations representing ATM/ANS (Air Traffic Management/Air Navigation Services) staff (ATCEUC, ETF, IFAIMA, IFATCA, IFATSEA) have decided to launch a petition.

ETF Air Traffic Management Committee released a new statement, detailing measures to be taken to ensure the provision of ATM services now and in the future.

Representatives of civil aviation workers from around Europe discuss the current issues workers are facing and how European trade union cooperation can help in addressing them.