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Introduction

In the aviation sector, the systematic reporting and analysis of safety-related occurrences is essential to maintaining and improving operational safety. ECCAIRS 2 (European Coordination Centre for Accident and Incident Reporting Systems) is the official platform used across the European Union to collect, manage, and share data on aviation occurrences. It supports a proactive approach to safety by enabling organizations and authorities to learn from past events and prevent future incidents.

Importance of Reporting

Occurrence reporting plays a critical role in aviation safety management. It allows stakeholders to:

  • Detect emerging risks and safety trends before they lead to accidents.

  • Share lessons learned across the aviation community.

  • Foster a safety culture where transparency and continuous improvement are prioritized.

  • Comply with legal obligations and contribute to the European-wide safety database.

Regulatory Framework

The reporting of aviation occurrences is governed by Regulation (EU) No 376/2014. This regulation establishes common rules for the reporting, analysis, and follow-up of civil aviation occurrences. It promotes a “Just Culture,” ensuring that individuals can report safety issues without fear of punishment, provided there is no gross negligence or willful misconduct.

The ECCAIRS 2 Platform

ECCAIRS 2 is developed and maintained by the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA). It provides a standardized and user-friendly interface for reporting occurrences, ensuring consistency and interoperability across Member States and organizations. The system supports various types of reports, including mandatory and voluntary submissions, and integrates with national databases and safety management systems.

Data Destination and Use

Once submitted, the data is transmitted to the European Central Repository (ECR), a centralized database managed by EASA. This repository serves as a key resource for safety analysis, enabling the identification of systemic issues and supporting the development of preventive measures at both national and European levels. The information is used by aviation authorities, operators, manufacturers, and researchers to enhance safety across the industry.

Reporting Process Overview

The reporting process in ECCAIRS 2 begins by accessing the official Reporting Portal. The initial reporting information is completed to help determine the appropriate authority to which the report should be submitted. This is followed by filling out the structured reporting form, which uses standardized fields and taxonomies to ensure consistency and clarity. Supporting documents—such as photos, flight data, or internal reports—can be attached to provide additional context. After reviewing all entered information, the report is submitted through the portal, where it is securely transmitted to the European Central Repository for further analysis and integration into the broader aviation safety system.

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