EU warned Germany over safety control 'before Germanwings crash'

It has been revealed that a European regulator found “issues” with Germany’s aviation authority over safety enforcement – reportedly before the Germanwings crash in the Alps.

A report in the Wall Street Journal said EU officials told Berlin last November to sort out long-standing staff shortages at the aviation authority, the Luftfahrtbundesamt (LBA), that could affect checks on planes and crew, including medical checks.

Investigators continue to probe the background of the co-pilot Andreas Lubitz who is believed to have deliberately crashed the plane, and questions have been asked as to whether examinations of his suitability to fly were rigorous enough.

Acknowledging that “issues” had been found, the European Commission
said in an emailed statement: “On the basis of EASA (European Aviation Safety Agency) recommendations, the Commission has addressed the issues to Germany to require compliance. Germany’s replies are currently being assessed.

“All EU member states have findin