Videoconference, 5 May 2023 — The ECAC Network of Communication Specialists (NETCOM) gathered online for its fourth meeting to exchange information on national activities and develop communication best practices in civil aviation among the ECAC Member States. The 30 participants from 22 ECAC Member States engaged in fruitful discussions on the activities outlined in the 2023 NETCOM work programme.
They acknowledged the potential need to amend the work programme to address one action arising from the joint ECAC-ICAO EUR/NAT regional workshop on assistance to aircraft accident victims and their families held in Milan on 20 February 2023. This action aims to develop best practices for handling media communication in such sensitive situations.
As part of ongoing efforts to foster collaboration and knowledge sharing, the meeting featured presentations from guest speakers. Maria Teresa Antunes (Portugal), Chair of the ECAC Facilitation Working Group, provided updates on the group’s latest developments, emphasising the importance of communication in addressing assistance to aircraft victims and the issue of unruly passengers.
Furthermore, a captivating case study was presented by Alec Elliott (Ireland), outlining the recent successful reorganisation of the Irish Aviation Authority (IAA). This comprehensive transformation involved the creation of a new brand, vision, and mission for IAA, accompanied by the launch of a new website. The case study shed light on the critical role of communication in managing organisational change effectively.
The meeting also witnessed lively discussions on communication campaigns related to drones. Updates from Ireland and the United Kingdom highlighted key aspects such as drone registration, safety measures, and regulations for travellers with drones.