| Journal: TWUK | Section: |
| Title: | Issue Date: 29/05/00 |
| Author: | Page Number: 3 |
| Copyright: Other |
British Midland US plans rely on route cuts
BRITISHMidland chairman Sir Michael Bishop has said he may have to scale back some European routes in order to free up transatlantic slots.Sir Michael told a House of Commons transport sub-committee hearing into UK-US agreements that though some mainland Europe routes may have to be scaled back, domestic routes would not be affected.
While giving evidence last Wednesday, Sir Michael said he felt there was a will in London and Washington to provide a new open-skies deal for airlines.
British Midland wants to launch flights to the US next summer in partnership with United Airlines.
Negotiators from the UK and US are due to meet on June 12 to reconvene open-skies talks. A result is expected in the autumn.
Rival carriers will give evidence to MPs next month.
British Midland is to unveil a new global livery in September to reflect a wider network.