European Aviation Safety Agency to participate in Madrid plane crash investigation
The European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) will participate in the investigation of the Spanair plane crash JK 5022 in Madrid (20/08/2008) as it has been invited to participate as experts.
The European Aviation Safety Agency is an agency of the European Union which has been given specific regulatory and executive tasks in the field of aviation safety. The Agency constitutes a key part of the European Union’s strategy to establish and maintain a high uniform level of civil aviation safety in Europe.
The Agency’s mission is twofold. It shall provide technical expertise to the European Commission by assisting in the drafting of rules for aviation safety in various areas and providing technical input to the conclusion of the relevant international agreements.
In addition, the Agency has been given the power to carry out certain executive tasks related to aviation safety, such as the certification of aeronautical products and organisations involved in their design, production and maintenance.
European Commission President Barroso expresses sympathy over Madrid plane crash
European Commission expressed its sympathy to the families of the victims of airplane crash in Madrid. The President of the European Commission, José Manuel Barroso said: "I am deeply saddened by the loss of life caused by this tragic plane crash. On my own behalf and that of the European Commission I would like to express our condolences to all those affected and to the Spanish authorities. Our thoughts are with the families of the victims".
Spanish Commissioner Joaquín Almunia and Antonio Tajani, Commission Vice President responsible for Transport, joined President Barroso in presenting their personal condolences.