19th June 2025, the Swiss Parliament debated two motions aimed at reducing business aviation activity in Switzerland. Following the Federal Council’s recommendation and based on factual evidence, Parliament rejected both motions. This is excellent news for the sector, its users, and associated jobs.

This spring, EASA launched an impact assessment survey as part of the rulemaking task RMT.0392, as outlined in the EBAA industry update from 10/02/2023 (link to https://www.ebaa.org/industry-updates/european-plan-for-aviation-safety-2023-2025-epas-impact-on-business-aviation/). The aim is to review the existing Complex Motor-Powered Aircraft (CMPA) criteria under Regulation (EU) 965/2012 and explore more relevant, balanced alternatives. The survey closed on 27 June 2025. We hope many of you had the chance to share your views.

The new EASA Ground Handling Mandate (EU Regulation 20/2025), adopted on March 7, 2025, represents a fundamental shift in ground handling regulation at EU airports, with full applicability by March 2028. This mandate introduces stricter requirements for ground handling service providers, including compliance declarations, Safety Management Systems (SMS), detailed manuals, and continuous personnel competence. Business aviation operators, in particular, must ensure their ground service partners are compliant and integrated into their safety oversight, especially for ad-hoc operations. While demanding, this new framework aims to enhance safety, provide clarity, and streamline partnerships across the sector.

The Spanish Business Aviation Association (SPBAA) has renewed its Board of Directors, appointing Olivier Poncet as President, to bolster its commitment to represent and grow the national business aviation sector. With around thirty member organizations, SPBAA aims to be the unified voice for the industry in Spain, prioritizing expanded membership and serving as a key interlocutor for aviation authorities to address sector challenges and contribute expertise.

On the 9th of June the European legislature has entered into its first year of tenure, with the Commission currently focusing on developing new proposals, in line with its 2025 Work Programme, as well as reviewing existing pieces of legislation that are deemed to need a refit. Among the list of legislation being reviewed is the Air Service Regulation (1008/2008), first adopted in 2008, which lays down rules for the operation of air transport services in the EU, including the licensing of EU air carriers and price transparency.

We operate at the forefront of global mobility, connecting businesses, facilitating trade, and providing essential services that no other mode of transport can match. Yet, our journey is far from smooth. Anyone with a minimum knowledge of the sector is aware of the complex headwinds we face: from persistent public perception challenges and fragmented regulations to the existential call for Net Zero and the geopolitical shifts impacting our continent.

This year’s EBACE began under a cloud of doubt — no static display, no OEMs, and widespread skepticism. But what unfolded was something deeply real: honest conversations, genuine engagement, and a renewed focus on what truly matters — people, collaboration, and human-centered safety. Through four bold panel sessions, we tackled tough questions and sparked powerful discussions, reinforcing a simple truth: safety isn’t about ticking boxes — it’s about trust, transparency, and teamwork. The momentum is real, and we’re building on it with new initiatives, from a revamped BASIC conference to a member-driven Safety Hub. Because in aviation, we win — or lose — together.

EASA is reviewing operational rules for (small-size) aeroplane operators, and your input can shape the outcome. Whether you operate small aircraft, run cost-sharing platforms, or fly larger jets, this survey is your chance to influence future regulation. Open until 30 May.

EBAA is pleased to launch its new compliance guide on the refuelling obligations set out in the ReFuelEU Aviation Regulation (EU 2023/2405). This user-friendly document is designed to support business aviation operators in navigating the complexities of the antitankering and reporting provisions introduced by the regulation.

Following the entry into force of the ReFuelEU Regulation in January 2025, several European business aviation operators have started to voice concerns over the operational issues with the implementation of the regulation’s Article 5, forbidding fuel tankering at Union airports and requiring burdensome administrative requirements. EBAA has gathered a group of expert members’ operators to help the association shape arguments in view of the ReFuelEU review in 2027 and assist other members with compliance.

Safety in business aviation isn’t about ticking boxes—it’s about trust, awareness, and human judgment. In a world of constant change, rigid compliance alone can’t prevent incidents. True safety lives in cultures where people speak up, adapt, and own responsibility. It’s time to stop managing people as risks—and start empowering them as our greatest safety asset.

As other regions intensify competition for investment and influence, the European Union must leverage every strategic asset at its disposal. Business aviation – often misunderstood as a luxury – is in fact a crucial tool for restoring and bolstering Europe’s competitiveness. It enables rapid access to international markets, facilitates foreign investments, and strengthens Europe’s strategic economic positioning on the world stage. In the context of EU policy debates, recognising the value of business aviation is more important than ever.

EBAA has responded to EASA's NPA 2024-106, advocating for realistic FTL rules tailored to business aviation. Key concerns include acclimatisation, standby duty, and preserving operational flexibility without compromising safety. EBAA continues to engage with EASA to shape fair, data-driven fatigue management regulations.

Launching in June, the programme empowers ambassadors to engage with EU policymakers and industry leaders. A Brussels workshop will offer hands-on advocacy training and strategic networking opportunities. Ambassadors play a vital role in advancing business aviation at both national and European levels.

EBAA has been officially accepted as an intervener in Dassault’s legal challenge against the EU Taxonomy Delegated Act. This marks a key step in defending business aviation from policies that hinder sustainable investment. EBAA will use its expertise to argue that excluding business aviation contradicts the Taxonomy’s goals. The move is part of a broader strategy to ensure fair, balanced regulation for the sector.

EBAA’s Operational Affairs Department ensures business aviation’s interests are represented in European and global initiatives. Through its work in areas like FABEC, TBO, PNR, and CNS modernization, EBAA fosters efficiency, sustainability, and innovation, strengthening the sector’s role in the European airspace ecosystem.

BASIC 2024 launched a new era in business aviation safety by bringing together diverse industry stakeholders to openly share ideas, build trust, and collaborate on real-world challenges. Through interactive sessions and focused “tribes,” participants moved beyond quick fixes toward deeper understanding and collective solutions.

The approval of the new European Commission highlights a shifting political landscape, with the EPP emerging as a key player in future compromises. Aviation policy under the von der Leyen II Commission will focus on balancing decarbonisation with competitiveness, involving multiple commissioners overseeing aviation initiatives. EBAA is committed to ensuring business aviation remains central to EU policies by advocating for net-zero goals, investments in aviation technology, and a competitive European market.