The European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) conducted a standardization inspection from February 24 to 28, 2025 in the areas of flight crew and cabin crew licensing and the issuance of medical certificates (FCL & MED). This is the first inspection under EASA requirements in the FCL and MED areas, which is significant for Montenegro, especially in the context of the EU accession process.

It can be stated that the inspection was successfully completed, considering the conclusions brought and the fact that the CAA staff and management were proactive in improving this domain in a short period. They also recognized the additional necessary steps to be taken, which aligns with the opinion of the EASA expert team. Therefore, the CAA continues to ensure the implementation of the European aviation regulations in Montenegro.

The EASA expert team positively evaluated the fact that the Agency has strengthened its capacities with aviation experienced staff, the management's readiness for further improvement of the system, as well as cooperation with other aviation authorities. They pointed out that it is necessary to continue with the processes the Agency has initiated in terms of harmonization of procedures and their implementation, with strengthening of training for employees, as well as with the intensification of digitization, which the Agency has already recognized in its Work Programme.

The inspection was conducted at the Agency’s premises, while the EASA team also reviewed how regulations are applied in practice at the Aero-medical Examination Center and two training organizations.

“All previous control missions and audits have helped us improve our work, and the visit concerning FCL and MED was an excellent opportunity to assess our current position and enhance our operation. We have already taken several steps to strengthen resources and improve activities in the field of flight crew and cabin crew licensing. Strengthening our team with experienced aviation professionals, including those specialized in the FCL field, has proven to be the right approach,” stated the Agency’s Director, Ivan Šćekić.

Šćekić expressed his gratitude to the employees who contributed during this control mission, as well as to EASA partners for their professional conduct and responsible approach, which is mutually beneficial for the continued improvement of safety in civil aviation.

We would like to remind you that EASA also conducted a standardization inspection in the ATM/ANS area last February. The control missions by European and international partners, which are carried out in the Agency almost every year, determine Montenegro’s compliance with the relevant EU regulatory requirements in air transport and thus indicate areas for further improvement.