Qatar Airways' corporate jet division obtains European safety authorisation

Qatar Executive, Qatar Airways' corporate jet division, is the first 'Business Aviation Operator' in the Middle East and one of first worldwide to be awarded the European Aviation Safety Agency's (EASA) third-country operator (TCO) safety certificate.

By 2016, all non-EU commercial operators wishing to fly to the EU will be required to hold the authorisation certifying their compliance with international ICAO safety standards. 

As of now, operators are required to apply for operating permits from each European country, whereas, under the new rule, the “EASA TCO” approval is a single safety authorisation valid in all EASA member states and outlying territories. 

EASA aims to reduce bureaucratic obstacles with the new unified approach and seeks to replace today's maze of national authorisations with a single document while maintaining the highest level of aviation safety in Europe. 

Qatar Airways Group chief executive Akbar Al Baker, said: “Being the first business aviation operator in the Middle East to be awarded the EASA TCO certificate demonstrates that Qatar Executive is at the forefront of international aviation standards and that we are setting a benchmark for operational excellence across our industry. 

“The new safety authorisation is a testament to our group’s high standards of safety, security, and attention to detail in all operational aspects, and is a proud moment for the company. 

“The safety and security of all our passengers and staff is our top priority, and we applaud EASA for its continuous efforts in enhancing international safety standards, and raising the bar for airlines and business aviation operators worldwide.”