Statement by Domingo Jiménez-Beltrán, EEA Executive Director

It is with the deepest sadness that I have to announce the death of Michele Fontana, an Italian expert working for the European Environment Agency, in the tragic accident at Milan airport yesterday.

Michele, who was 35, leaves his partner and their two small boys. I have today conveyed to his family the heartfelt condolences of all of us at the Agency.

A transport economist of wide renown, Michele had contributed greatly to the Agency’s work on transport and environment since joining us in February for one year. He was a widely popular member of staff.

Michele will be greatly missed by all at the Agency and by those he worked with in the European Commission and other EU and international organisations.