Press Release: European Commission welcomes European Parliament vote endorsing new rules for investigation and prevention of air accidents

The European Commission welcomes the vote on 21 September 2010 supporting a new regulation on investigation and prevention of accidents in civil aviation which paves the way to a first reading agreement between Parliament and Council. The new legislation will strengthen the independence and effectiveness of air accident investigations in the EU, promote cooperation between the accident investigation authorities, and ensure better follow-up of safety recommendations. In addition, the new regulation significantly reinforces the rights of victims of air accidents and their relatives.