Brussels, Belgium – 1 February 2008 – In its role as the “Voice” of the Business Aviation community in Europe, the European Business Aviation Association (EBAA) is pleased to be involved in Eurocontrol’s European VLJs Integration Platform (VIP). Business Aviation is already one of the fastest growing sectors in Europe at around 10% per annum, and the introduction of VLJs will add to this healthy growth. To ensure that the increase in Very Light Jets (VLJs) entering operations in the region within the next 5 to 10 years is handled safely and efficiently, Eurocontrol has launched this new forum to propose solutions for integrating VLJs into the European air traffic system. Aside from the EBAA, a number of large VLJ manufacturers and operators participate in the VIP.

Eurocontrol’s studies show that there are about 440 VLJs currently on order for operation in Europe. Of these, at least 230 are expected for delivery by the end of 2010. And the majority of VLJs are expected to be used for air-taxi type work.

Eric Mandemaker, CEO of the EBAA, recently attended a conference held by the US-based Air Taxi Association (ATXA) in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida, where he conveyed the EBAA’s keenness to assist European air-taxi operators, some of which are already active members of the Association.

“The EBAA feels that a forum such as VIP is a positive development for Business Aviation in Europe. We are convinced that the services that these additional air-taxi operators provide will only enhance the business travel industry in the region and the travel options open to customers,” says Mandemaker. “We are likewise delighted that the standard of best practice for business aircraft operations, IS-BAO, has been endorsed by the ATXA Board as the quality standard to be used by their members.”

The EBAA welcomes European air-taxi operators as new members to the Association. On their behalf the EBAA will continue to help ensure their smooth and safe integration into European airspace, and will aid them in adopting best practices as they integrate into the current Business Aviation landscape.

About The European Business Aviation Association (EBAA)
The European Business Aviation Association (EBAA) was founded in 1977 to defend the interests of business aviation. Today, more than 500 business aviation companies (direct members or members of associate organisations) rely on the EBAA to protect their business interests. It is the only voice to represent business aviation among the European institutions.

Source: EBAA
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