The European Cockpit Association (ECA) is the representative body of European Flight Crew at European Union (EU) level. Speaking on behalf of its members – the National Flight Crew Associations originating from 34 European countries – ECA represents over 38,100 European pilots/flight engineers. ECA plays an active, responsible role in the further development of the air transport industry across Europe. ECA strives for an air transport industry that is above all safe and is characterized by sustainable growth.
Aviation safety is ECA's prime concern. It is best maintained with well-trained crews, along with harmonised regulations for flight crew licences, flight and duty time limitations, proper aircraft maintenance, air traffic management, employment conditions etc.
Since 2000, ECA is a recognised Social Partner in the EU's Sectoral Social Dialogue. This allows ECA to develop – jointly with European employer organisations – common positions, recommendations and agreements that can have legally binding effect throughout the EU. An example is the Agreement on Air Crew Working Time. It was developed and signed by ECA and the other European Social Partners and subsequently converted into EU-wide legislation.
ECA was formed in 1991 as an autonomous group of National Flight Crew Associations, representing their members' interests at EU level.
All of ECA's Member Associations are also member of the International Federation of Air Line Pilots' Associations (IFALPA). This ensures a close coordination of activities, positions and policy statements. In 2003, both organisations agreed that pilot representation in Europe is the responsibility of ECA, mandating ECA to also act as IFALPA's European voice in bodies such as EASA, EUROCONTROL and at the EU Institutions (Commission, Council, Parliament). In May 2006, both organisations took their cooperation an important step further, by signing a comprehensive cooperation agreement. By means of this agreement, and in addition to its role as an autonomous voice of European pilots, ECA
