Disruption procedure and crisis management (EACCC)
The European Aviation Crisis Coordination Cell (EACCC) was established by EU Transport Ministers on 11 May 2010 with the help of EUROCONTROL. Its aim is to respond to crisis situations like the volcanic ash disruptions of April and May 2010.
In the event of extreme weather, the Network manager will activate the first phase of its network disruption procedure. The main contact points in case of an expected crisis are:
- When heavy winter conditions are expected, contact DNM Current operations Manager
Tel: +322745193 and FM Supervisor to start the PRE-ALERT PHASE. - When there is heavy weather, contact again the DNM Current OPS Manager
Tel: +3227451931 and FM Supervisor to start the DISRUPTION MANAGEMENT PHASE;
explain the situation in detail and the measures necessary. - The Network Manager will organise operational teleconferences with the concerned partners when and as needed.
For more information: check out the Network Operations Portal (NOP).
The EACCC: coordinating crisis response
The EACCC brings together representatives from EUROCONTROL, the European Commission, EASA (the European Aviation Safety Agency), the European Union (EU) Member States and air transport stakeholders. Its main role is to facilitate the management of crisis situations affecting aviation in the European Civil Aviation Conference (ECAC) region.
The EACCC is responsible for alerting the aviation community to an impending crisis and for proposing, coordinating and implementing the measures required to deal with it. A key function of the Cell is therefore to keep all aviation stakeholders informed about the crisis, including the decisions that have been taken and the progress of the measures to deal with it.
Steps taken in the event of a crisis
When snow causes major disruptions at European airports, leading to longer-term airport closures (as was the case in December 2010), the Network Manager will activate phase 1 of its Network Disruptions Management Procedure.
In this case, the EACCC (European Aviation Crisis Coordination Cell) Chairperson will inform members of the EACCC about the event (as you know, an EC representative is a member of the EACCC). Relevant state focal points would also be contacted. If necessary, there would be consultation with: key players at the affected airports, ANSPs, AOs and NM, all done via teleconferences. The objective would be to gather information on the current situation, assess its impact and duration and agree on measures to be taken to manage the impact of the disruption on the network.
A “disruption spokesperson” is then nominated within the Network Management Directorate to answer questions from the media. In addition to the usual means of operational communication via the NOP Portal, information on the event is provided to the general public via EUROCONTROL’s website.
The ‘Network Manager’ will continue to monitor the situation in close coordination with all key players to make ensure that the most appropriate measures are taken.
When the situation improves, the Network Manager will ensure proper coordination with key players in the network to ensure a smooth transition to normal operations.
