The publication of EASA’s final report on the safety risks of single-pilot flying marks the close of a critical research phase – and a significant pause in the industry’s push toward reduced crew operations. While this outcome may stall momentum for certain stakeholders, it is far from the end of the discussion. For pilots, it is a clear validation: our safety concerns are real, substantiated, and now supported by science. This is not a final verdict – but it is a firm reminder that safety cannot be compromised for commercial convenience.

On 18 June, EASA officially concluded its scientific study into single-pilot and extended minimum crew operations (eMCO), carried out by a research consortium led by the Royal Netherlands Aerospace Center (NLR). The study examined the safety implications of removing one pilot from the flight deck – either for part of the flight (eMCO) or potentially the entire flight (SiPO – single-pilot operations).

We will be analysing the report and its detailed findings in depth over the coming weeks, to ensure all relevant safety considerations are fully understood and addressed.

The study’s key finding could not be clearer:

“An equivalent level of safety between eMCO and normal crew operations can currently not be demonstrated.”

For those of us operating these aircraft daily, this comes as no surprise. We have consistently raised the alarm that reducing crew would introduce a range of new safety risks that cannot be effectively mitigated under current conditions. This scientific conclusion validates those concerns and marks a significant moment in the debate.

Capt. Tanja Harter, ECA President, says:
“To us – European pilots – this very straightforward conclusion confirms our long-standing concerns. Having these concerns acknowledged through independent research is an important step forward. We now urge both EASA and ICAO to fully integrate these findings into their decision-making as they consider future industry proposals.”

Capt. Juan-Carlos Lozano, ECA Technical Board Director, adds:
“The push for eMCO is not about addressing a safety gap. It is commercially driven, and it must be viewed in that light. Any new cockpit technologies must clearly and demonstrably improve safety, and they must complement – not replace – the proven human multicrew model.”

As airline pilots, we remain committed to the principle that:
“Two well-rested, qualified, and trained pilots in the cockpit remain essential to ensuring flight safety – at all times,” concludes Capt. Harter.

“This principle will continue to guide our engagement with regulators and our commitment to Europe’s flying public.”

Background

The pressure from certain aircraft manufacturers and airlines to reduce cockpit crew is ongoing. Their vision of eMCO and, ultimately, full single-pilot operations is driven by commercial interests – but it raises serious and unresolved safety concerns. In response to this push, EASA launched a comprehensive scientific study, led by NLR and supported by other research bodies. The study assessed technical feasibility, operational challenges, human factors, and the overall safety impact of reducing flight deck crew.

The final report marks the end of this particular research project – and a clear indication that the single-pilot concept is not ready for takeoff. But the discussion is far from over. We remain vigilant and committed to ensuring that safety stays at the heart of every decision shaping the future of aviation.

The European Cockpit Association represents the collective interests of professional pilots at European level, striving for the highest levels of aviation safety and fostering social rights and quality employment.