Irish Aviation Authority

Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 21 June 2018

Thursday, 21 June 2018

Ceisteanna (228)

Jack Chambers

Ceist:

228. Deputy Jack Chambers asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport further to Parliamentary Question No. 511 of 29 May 2018, if his attention has been drawn to the fact that there has been an effective change in the way in which the IAA is recognising written examination certificates issued by the UK authorised examiners which are held by many student pilots in training to become qualified pilots (details supplied); if he will examine the matter in view of the fact that this is causing great distress for the students; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27274/18]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport

I am advised by the Irish Aviation Authority (IAA), which is the State regulator of pilot training and licencing, that there has been no change to the practice of verification adopted by the IAA. When seeking verification, in the interests of safety, the IAA always seeks such verification directly from the Competent Authority in other States with oversight responsibility for the activity.

However, I am now advised that a policy change within the UK Civil Aviation Authority - in relation to the acquisition and retention of data from theoretical examinations (including results) - has impacted on the CAA's ability to provide the required verification to the IAA as previously given. The IAA has informed me that it has raised this issue with the UK CAA, and I have instructed the IAA to revert to me and also to advise you when there is a resolution.