Aviation is a safe mode of transport and important for the economy. At the same time, it is burdensome for the living environment. It is important to work towards a good balance between (safe) flying and a sustainable living environment. This requires adjusted regulations that can end anticipatory enforcement. This is stated in the State of Aviation 2025 from the aviation authority of the Human Environment and Transport Inspectorate (ILT Aviation Authority).
The noise disturbance from residents near airports is increasing. Among other things, the frequency and timing of overflights are important factors of disturbance. A shortage of technical personnel and parts, along with an increase in cyber threats and disruptive passengers, can lead to a decrease in safety levels. These vulnerabilities must be addressed.
With its oversight, the ILT Aviation Authority aims to contribute to an even safer aviation and an improvement of the living environment. The State of Aviation 2025 was presented today by Minister Madlener of Infrastructure and Water Management to the House of Representatives.
Noise Reduction Requires More Than Quiet Aircraft
The ILT Aviation Authority has repeatedly noted that citizens are currently insufficiently protected against serious noise disturbance around Schiphol under the current regulations. As a result of the ministers directive, the ILT Aviation Authority is limited in its ability to enforce noise regulations.
Although the aviation sector is rapidly renewing its fleet with quieter aircraft, the number of flight movements is simultaneously increasing. This largely negates the effect of a quieter fleet. Thus, there is a significant challenge for the aviation sector. Moreover, analyses by the ILT Aviation Authority show that not only the decibels of sound but also the frequency and timing of flights are reasons for noise disturbance among residents. According to the ILT Aviation Authority, these are points of leverage for reducing disturbance when considering possible measures and developing regulations. For example, by more frequently applying so-called glide path approaches, the perception of disturbance can decrease.
Shortage of Personnel and Equipment
In the previous State of Aviation, the ILT Aviation Authority found that personnel shortages are widespread within aviation. Additionally, several aviation companies report that there were shortages of certified parts in 2024. A shortage of qualified technicians does not in itself lead to unsafe conditions. However, it can mean that they have less oversight of the influence of their own work on the whole. Delays in certain tasks due to a parts shortage can affect other parts of the aircraft. The shortages of personnel and materials can reinforce each other and subtly lower the safety level (drift into failure). During audits and inspections, both the shortages and their potential consequences have the continuous attention of the ILT Aviation Authority.
Increased Cyber Resilience Needed Due to Geopolitical Developments
There is also increasing digitalization and dependence on technology in aviation. This brings significant risks, especially in the area of cybersecurity. Among other things, due to geopolitical developments, cyber threats are becoming more current, numerous, and sophisticated. Cyber threats can include disruptions to aviation, attacks on airports, GPS-jamming and -spoofing, data theft, ransomware attacks, and internal threats. A coordinated cyber attack can have far-reaching consequences for the aviation industry and society. Therefore, it is crucial that the sector further invests in security, collaboration, and increasing awareness and resilience.
Disruptive Passengers
The number of people misbehaving on board and displaying verbal or physical aggression continues to rise. Disruptive behavior can pose a threat to safety and sometimes causes delays or diversions of a flight. The ILT Aviation Authority advocates, among other things, for airlines to take measures to prevent disruptive behavior. This can be done by combating alcohol abuse and standardizing the boarding process to reduce irritations before boarding.
About the State of Aviation
In 2024, the ILT published the 1st State of Aviation. Now, a year later, the ILT Aviation Authority shows for the 2nd time how safety and sustainability are faring at and around Schiphol and other airports. The State of Aviation provides insight into current and future trends. Through the State, the ILT Aviation Authority aims to provide stakeholders with tools to discuss these matters with each other. And to take action to jointly address vulnerable points.