EU lawmakers push for a joint civil-protection air fleet starting in 2028
The European Parliament's health committee voted to create an EU-wide fire-fighting aircraft fleet from 2028 and to increase civil-protection spending.
The health committee of the European Parliament approved a proposal to establish a European fire-fighting aircraft fleet that would become operational in 2028. The initiative includes a request for greater EU budget allocations to civil protection during the 2028-2034 financial framework. Lawmakers also intend to map member-state vulnerabilities, set up a common space-based alert system, and align civilian and military response mechanisms.
A new legal category for volunteer rescuers, including social-security benefits, is part of the draft. Additionally, the proposal seeks to reinforce joint stockpiles of equipment and facilitate cross-border medical support during emergencies.
Why it matters
A coordinated EU rescue fleet could improve disaster response and save lives across member states.
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