EU backs 'open skies' deal

EU transport ministers today unanimously endorsed the EU-US open skies aviation agreement.

The deal, which has been criticised by some UK airlines, eases restrictions on travel between Europe and the US.

The decision was welcomed by transport commissioner Jacques Barrot, who described it as a “good” agreement.

"The deal is of great political and economic importance. The fact that everyone in the council has been able to welcome the outcome is to be commended," he said.

"It is good for passengers and for airlines. It is also good for the EU, member states, the US and the entire transatlantic economy."

"This confidence and unity means that the European side enters the next phase of negotiations with the US in a strong position."

His comments were echoed by German MEP Georg Jarzembowski, EPP transport spokesman.

"The deal creates a transatlantic market for air services to the benefit of European companies and passengers alike and I am confident we will see a broad majority for final approval in parliament," he said.

The deal is subject to final approval by parliament and MEPs vote on it at the next plenary in April.

The UK had raised concerns that open skies reform did not go far enough on US airline ownership rights.

The US has insisted on limiting any foreign company from owning more than 25 per cent of a US airline’s voting rights.

Under the deal, any EU-based airline will be allowed to fly from any city within the EU to any city in the US, and vice versa.

But while US airlines will gain free access to European airports, EU carriers will not be allowed the same rights on domestic routes within the US.

• Previous article
• Next article