The terrorist attacks in Brussels early March 22 postponed a key meeting between officials with IAOPA Europe and the European Parliament that was scheduled to take place that evening. About 120 European Parliament members, staffers, and key aviation industry officials were scheduled to arrive in Brussels for the meeting that day to discuss establishing the equivalent of the U.S. House and Senate General Aviation Caucuses.
“This was to be a watershed event for GA in Europe,” said IAOPA Secretary General Craig Spence.
Spence said that as soon as he learned of the terrorist attacks, he checked on the IAOPA Europe members who were scheduled to be en route for the meeting to verify they were safe.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with all those who have been affected by these terrorist attacks,” said Spence, adding that the attacks come much too soon after the bombings in Paris in November. “Thankfully, our IAOPA Europe members are safe.”
The meeting between IAOPA Europe and the European Union Parliament members will be rescheduled for a later date, he said.
Spence said that he also learned that officials from the General Aviation Manufacturers Association’s office in Brussels, located not far from the subway station attack, are safe as well.
“While yesterday’s attacks took place near GAMA’s Brussels office, our employees are safe, and our hearts go out to all those affected by these horrific and senseless acts of violence,” said GAMA Spokeswoman Mary Lynn Rynkiewicz.
The impact the attacks in Brussels have on GA pilots flying in the United States should be minimal, Spence said. AOPA members might notice an increase in canine patrols and random inspections at aircraft operating areas at larger airports that have Transportation Security Administration staff.
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