Gate One considers, that the regulatory changes planned by the European Commission have the potential to aggravate further the financial situation of ANSPs. Therefore, we suggest that a strong CANSO position is developed, which contains at least the following messages:

  • The CEOs of the ANSPs undersigned consider that the management of ATM infrastructure is best left to ANSPs. We can handle this, if there are clear and agreed EU policy objectives, targets and rules. We are ready to take the responsibility to steer our companies to meet such targets.
  • In this respect, however, ANSPs should be trusted, treated as equal partners and their efforts acknowledged.
  • We need legal certainty. Therefore, in respect of aviation infrastructure it is essential to rely on the provisions of the Chicago Convention and the Performance Scheme.
  • The European Commission should not increase uncertainty by questioning basic principles embedded in the regulation in force.
  • Furthermore, ATM infrastructure (ANSPs) should not be viewed as a simple cost item.
  • For delivering the needed performance, we need clarity in respect of targets and rules rather than regulatory intervention into operational management and increased administrative burdens.
  • ATM will need to remain a resilient and reliable part of aviation infrastructure. Neither aviation markets, nor supply chains can properly function without ATM today.
  • Securing the continuous and safe functioning of aviation infrastructure must be a priority for Europe. We cannot reduce services today and provide full capacity tomorrow.
  • Furthermore, maintaining safe service provision and managing risks related to the epidemic require significant additional efforts without any major cost saving potential even for significantly reduced traffic levels.
  • Aviation infrastructure cannot be understood as one additional source of financial aid to airlines, including non-EU carriers.
  • Measures of today should be principally driven by long-term objectives. Mitigating the effects of COVID-19, should not sacrifice long-term goals.
  • Based on the above principles, we are ready to discuss any proposal for the benefit of the EU community. We need to keep European aviation infrastructure safe and resilient.

Note: this Gate One position has been adopted by 2/3 majority of the Gate One members, with the slightly different opinion of ACG, PANSA and ANS CR