The European Parliament’s decision to fast-track the European Commission’s Digital Green Certificates proposal using an Urgent Procedure has been welcomed by Airlines for Europe Group A4E.
A4E are working closely with national governments and the European Commission to provide input on the technical specifications needed to make the digital certificates – or private apps which would use them – inter-operable by June.
Several private solutions are currently being trialled by A4E airlines, including the AOK app, IATA Travel Pass, Verifly and others.
These solutions will be key in enabling a scaling up of air travel going forward, gathering feedback both from the users as well as the technical providers, relevant authorities and airport staff before rolling them out on a wider level.
Thomas Reynaert, Managing Director, Airlines for Europe (A4E) said: “We fully welcome today’s positive vote by the European Parliament to expedite a decision on the Digital Green Certificates proposal. The ball is now in the court of the European Council to make this happen.
“Whatever solution is offered to passengers this summer, it must be simple to use, inter-operable among EU countries and cover a passenger’s vaccination, testing and recovery status. Most importantly, EU governments must take the responsibility for verifying the authenticity of these certificates. Airlines are happy to provide input and facilitate their use – but this work belongs with EU governments.”
