Single-pilot commercial flights on hold until at least 2030

In response to pitches made by Airbus and Dassault Aviation for the right to operate the cruise phase of commercial flights with only one pilot in the cockpit, the European aviation regulator has ruled out the prospect of flights with a single pilot until at least 2030. However, the regulator is considering the possibility of allowing single-pilot elements of a flight by 2027.

Limitations would be set that bar pilots with existing medical conditions or insufficient flight hours from operating on their own at any time. The move to solo pilots relates more to long-haul flights where pilots would be able to take rest breaks without there having to be replacement pilots on board. This is in response to the aviation industry