The updated list now includes Libya but otherwise remains unchanged. The new list will subject Libyan airlines to an operating ban or operational restrictions within the EU.
EU Commissioner for Transport Violeta Bulc said: “Recent events in Libya have led to a situation whereby the Civil Aviation Authority is no longer able to fulfill its international obligations with regard to the safety of the Libyan aviation sector. My priority in aviation is passenger safety, which is non-negotiable, and we stand ready to help the Libyan aviation sector as soon as the situation on the ground will allow for this.”
The updated EU air safety list includes all airlines certified in 21 states, fully banning a total of 308 airlines from EU skies.
Countries fully banned from EU skies include: Afghanistan, Angola, Benin, Republic of the Congo, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Djibouti, Equatorial Guinea, Eritrea, Gabon (with the exception of three airlines under terms and conditions), Indonesia (with the exception of five airlines), Kazakhstan (with the exception of one airline under terms and conditions), Kyrgyzstan, Liberia, Libya, Mozambique, Nepal, Philippines (with the exception of two airlines), Sierra Leone, Sao Tome and Principe, Sudan and Zambia.
Blue Wing Airlines from Suriname and Meridian Airways from Ghana are two individual airlines banned from EU skies, increasing the overall banned airlines to 310.
“Progress has been made in a number of countries whose carriers are on list, notably the Philippines, Sudan, Mozambique and Zambia. Hopefully, this progress can lead to a positive decision in the future” Violeta Bulc added.
The blacklist also includes ten airlines which are only able to operate over EU skies subject to restrictions, such as specific aircraft types. These include Air Astana from Kazakhstan, Afrijet, Gabon Airlines and SN2AG – all from Gabon, Air Koryo from the Democratic People’s Republic of China, Airlift International from Ghana, Air Service Comores from The Comoros, Iran Air, TAAG Angolian Airlines and Air Madagascar.
Although Air Koryo is allowed to serve EU skies with some restrictions, the airline doesn’t serve any destinations inside Europe.
Libyan carriers were last banned from serving the European Union in 2012 under precautionary measures, after Libya imposed ‘serious’ safety issues.
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