The Association of Tour Operators and Travel Agents of the Czech Republic

Update of the EU Air Safety List

On 7 June 2023, the Commission has updated the EU Air Safety List, which is the list of airlines that are subject to an operating ban or operational restrictions within the European Union, because they do not meet international safety standards.

Europe is one of the world's highest aviation safety regions thanks to the effective application of high standards. By working closely with Member States' safety authorities, other countries and international organisations in the field of aviation, the European Union aims to raise these standards worldwide. However, some airlines still operate in conditions that fall below basic, internationally recognised safety standards.

The EU Air Safety List was established by the European Union under EU Regulation 2111/2005. "The Black List" was first published in March 2006 and has been updated regularly since then.

The above EU Regulation further implies that if a passenger purchases a ticket from a retailer or travel agent within the EU and the air carrier is assigned to the EU Air Safety List, the retailer or travel agent is obliged to offer the passenger the option of a refund or a free re-routing to another flight.

You can find the updated Air Safety List here: EU Air Safety List | ec.europa.eu

Following this latest update, a total of 128 airlines are banned from EU skies:

• 101 airlines certified in 15 different States, due to inadequate safety oversight by the aviation authorities from these States;
• 22 airlines certified in Russia, as well as 5 individual airlines from other States, based on serious safety deficiencies identified: Avior Airlines (Venezuela), Blue Wing Airlines (Suriname), Iran Aseman Airlines (Iran), Iraqi Airways (Iraq) and Air Zimbabwe (Zimbabwe).

Two additional airlines are subject to operational restrictions and can only fly to the EU with specific aircraft types: Iran Air (Iran) and Air Koryo (North Korea).

We therefore strongly advise all European citizens to avoid using the services of these airlines as there are significant safety risks!

19.06.2023