Pilots have a key interest in improving safety through regular reporting practices. However, they can do so only if they are certain that they will not be legally prosecuted and if their companies guarantee the protection of data in a Just Culture environment.

The Flight Data (FD) recorded during a flight must be used solely to enhance aviation safety. During an operation any occurrence may happen, but if the pilot aware of what happened fears to be sanctioned, he might prefer not to report. However, the less reporting, the less the aviation sector can learn from such occurrences to prevent future accidents or incidents. Aviation safety can only be improved if front end users can report occurrences without fearing that disciplinary measures will be taken against them.

The ECA has a dedicated Flight Data Working Group.