Fears lower price cap may threaten flight safety

THE Irish Aviation Authority (IAA) has warned the Commission for Aviation Regulation (CAR) that a proposed price cap for its air traffic control services could jeopardise the safety of flights using Irish airspace.

The CAR has recommended increases ranging from 6.7% to 14% in the charge to airlines for navigation services provided by the IAA to take effect from later this month.

However, the IAA has expressed concern that the proposed lower increase from €1.94 to €2.07 per tonne of departing aircraft is insufficient to maintain and enhance existing safety levels of its operations.