As the industry enters a period of rapid technological change, America’s Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) have pledged to deepen their collaboration on aviation safety.
The commitment was made at the 2026 FAA and EASA International Safety Conference in Chantilly, Virginia, a three-day event from June 16-18, 2026 held under the theme ‘Safety Together: Innovation, Integration and Trust.’
Collaboration as technology evolves
The FAA stressed that aviation technology is evolving quickly, from automated cockpit systems to new certification pathways for advanced aircraft. According to both regulators, cooperation is essential to keep pace with innovation while maintaining safety standards.
For FAA Administrator Bryan Bedford, the moment calls for stronger international partnerships.
“This is one of the most innovative moments in aviation, not just for America but also for our international partners,” Bedford said. “Sharing information and fostering conversations about safety allow us to strengthen our international partnerships and ensure aviation systems evolve safely and efficiently.”
EASA Executive Director Florian Guillermet echoed the sentiment.
“By working together, sharing expertise, and aligning our approaches, EASA and the FAA can support innovation while preserving public confidence in aviation,” Guillermet said.
Where the two agencies will work together
In tandem, the two agencies outlined a series of commitments, including:
- Strengthening information sharing on safety oversight and best practices
- Advancing safety management systems toward more data-driven decision-making
- Streamlining approval processes for new aviation technologies
- Accelerating the safe integration of automated cockpit systems
- Modernizing pilot training and simulator capabilities
- Improving coordination on emerging risks such as cyber threats, GPS interference, conflict zones and extreme weather
FAA and EASA leadership have pledged to meet regularly to review progress and identify new priorities.
Next stop: Cologne
The conference brought together around 400 senior aviation professionals from regulators, manufacturers, airlines and industry associations worldwide. The event is held annually, alternating between the FAA and EASA as host. Next year’s conference will take place in Cologne, Germany, from June 22 to 24, 2027.