EASA Releases First AI Regulation Proposal for the Aviation Industry 

Artificial Intelligence is moving from research labs to real-world aviation applications faster than ever. From predictive maintenance to cockpit decision-support tools, AI is becoming an integral part of how the aviation ecosystem evolves. To ensure these systems are introduced safely and responsibly, the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) has released its first official regulatory proposal on Artificial Intelligence in aviation

EASA’s AI Proposal and  What It Covers 

EASA has published a Notice of Proposed Amendment (NPA 2025-07) as part of its broader AI Programme. This document provides technical guidance on how to ensure the trustworthiness of AI systems, aligning with the EU AI Act (Regulation (EU) 2024/1689)

The proposal is now open for public consultation for three months, and EASA is encouraging the entire aviation community to share feedback and practical insights during this phase. 

Laying the Groundwork for Safe and Reliable AI 

This publication marks the first step of Rulemaking Task (RMT) 0742, which will later be followed by a second proposal in 2026. Together, these initiatives aim to create a comprehensive framework that will apply to various aviation domains, including aircraft certification, air traffic management, and drone operations. 

The current proposal focuses on two levels of AI integration: 

  • Level 1 AI (AI-based assistance): systems that support pilots and operators through data analysis and decision assistance. 
  • Level 2 AI (Human-AI teaming): solutions that involve deeper collaboration between humans and AI during operations. 

EASA’s guidance addresses key aspects such as AI assurance, human factors, and ethics, and covers both supervised and unsupervised machine learning systems. Future updates are expected to expand this framework to include reinforcement learning, knowledge-based technologies, hybrid systems, and generative AI

Building a Foundation for the Future 

The AI framework is designed to be flexible and adaptable as technology continues to evolve. Its goal is to establish clear standards for safety, transparency, and accountability while encouraging innovation across the aviation sector. 

EASA also recognized the contributions of the experts and stakeholders involved in developing the proposal and emphasized the importance of ongoing collaboration as the second NPA is prepared. 

What This Means for Aviation Professionals 

The introduction of AI regulations is a turning point for the aviation industry. Pilots, engineers, and aviation managers will soon need to understand how AI tools operate within regulatory boundaries and how they can enhance safety and efficiency. 

At AviationCV, we closely follow these developments to help aviation professionals stay informed about the technologies and regulatory changes shaping the future of flight. Understanding these shifts is essential for anyone looking to remain competitive in an increasingly technology-driven industry. 

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