The Executive Committee (EC) had a meeting on 10th September 2024. This was a special additional meeting solely to discuss a proposal that EBF should affiliate to Europe Air Sports (EAS).
The President explained that EBF had been working since its formation outside the framework of EAS and had been successful in its direct work with EASA on the balloon specific regulations (Parts BFCL, BOP) and main other regulations (Part ML, Part DTO).
However, there are many challenges facing ballooning now which are also common with other types of general aviation, notably the increasing presence of drones, the need for electronic conspicuity and the constant need to monitor changes (especially expansion) in airspace.
By joining EAS, EBF will be able to benefit from the much greater resources of EAS and from its good connections with EASA. EBF will still be the main source of ballooning expertise and will continue to lead on key initiatives which are mainly for balloons. As part of EAS, EBF will also be granted access to certain EASA meetings and workgroups which cannot be accessed by EBF alone.
In 2024, unlike in 2014, EBF has sufficient financial resources for the EAS membership fee. It was explained that EAS funding is through two channels, both via national federations / aeroclubs and from the European organisations such as EBF. This should not be seen as paying twice, rather as paying in two parts.
After discussion by the EC, it was unanimously agreed that EBF should submit an affiliation request to EAS.
Paul Spellward, President