EASA, the European Union Aviation Safety Agency, has launched a new initiative called the Rule Simplification Programme designed to make aviation regulation easier to understand and apply, while continuing to uphold the highest safety standards. European Aviation safety has been supported by a comprehensive regulatory framework that has evolved alongside the industry. However, as safety requirements have grown more complex, so too has the challenge of keeping regulations clear, consistent, and manageable.
This simplification programme is part of the EU’s broader Better Regulation policy, which aims to modernise and streamline regulatory processes across all sectors. In aviation, the goal is to reduce unnecessary complexity, eliminate duplication, and ensure that rules are proportionate to the risks they address. At the same time, EASA wants to support innovation and competitiveness within the industry, helping it adapt to new technologies and market developments.
The Rule Simplification Programme is closely aligned with EASA’s strategic priorities. It focuses on maintaining safety by removing outdated or redundant requirements and closing any gaps in the regulatory framework. It also supports the safe integration of emerging technologies, ensuring that innovation can flourish without compromising operational integrity.
To guide this ambitious effort, EASA established the Joint MAB/SAB Simplification Board (JSB) in May 2025. This board brings together representatives from across the aviation community, including six members from the Member States Advisory Board (MAB), six from the Stakeholders Advisory Board (SAB), one from the European Commission, and one from EUROCONTROL. The JSB plays a key role in identifying areas where simplification is needed, advising EASA on priorities, and ensuring that the process remains transparent and inclusive.
Stakeholder engagement is central to the success of the programme. To that end, EASA has launched a survey to gather feedback from industry professionals, regulators, and other stakeholders. The survey is designed to identify the areas where simplification would have the greatest impact, uncover challenges in applying current rules, and help EASA prioritise future actions. Responses will directly influence the development of the next European Plan for Aviation Safety (EPAS 2027), which will include a broader set of simplification measures.
The survey is open until the end of 2025, but EASA encourages early participation to ensure that a wide range of voices are heard. This is a unique opportunity for the Irish aviation community to help shape the future of regulation, making it smarter, more efficient, and better suited to the realities of modern aviation.
In the short term, EASA is already implementing targeted actions under EPAS 2026. These include efforts to streamline pilot licensing and training systems, update medical standards for pilots and air traffic controllers, simplify aerodrome operations, and enhance drone regulations. These early steps will lay the groundwork for broader reforms in the years ahead.
Responses to the survey are welcome from individuals and organisations. To access the survey, please click here.
