AQW 47745/22-27

Ms Kate Nicholl
Alliance Party
South Belfast

Tabled Date: 03/06/2026
Answered On Date: 18/06/2026
Priority Written: No

Question:
To ask the Minister for the Economy to detail (i) any engagement her Department has had with the (a) UK Government; and (b) the Civil Aviation Authority regarding any barriers faced by airlines operating out of Northern Ireland, in recruiting pilots and engineers who hold European licences; and (ii) any steps she is taking to seek special dispensation arrangements for licence recognition, across the island of Ireland.

Answer:

I am aware that the absence of mutual recognition between British and EU aviation licencing following EU Exit creates barriers for aviation professionals operating out of the north, limiting workforce supply and mobility.

Licencing is a reserved matter and therefore, my Department does not have the authority to introduce special dispensation arrangements. However, my officials have engaged with the British Department for Transport and through it the Civil Aviation Authority to ensure that local challenges are understood and to press them to identify proportionate and practical solutions that support the long-term sustainability of the aviation workforce here.