European Aviation Safety Agency

The European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) is the center piece of the E.U.'s strategy for civil aviation safety. Established in 2002 and based in Cologne, Germany, its core mandate is to promote and ensure a high, uniform level of safety and environmental protection in civil aviation throughout the E.U. and associated nations. Its responsibilities include drafting common safety regulations, certifying aircraft, approving design/production organizations, and overseeing implementation.