News

BA urges rivals to abide by EC ruling

British Airways is demanding that all dominant European carriers should be forced to abide by the European Commission ruling.


The carrier has singled out Sabena, Air France, Lufthansa, KLM, SAS, Alitalia, Austrian Airlines and Olympic Airways as airlines which must come into line.


BA director of sales Dale Moss said: “We want the same set of rules for all carriers all over Europe. We want to absolutely make sure there is a level playing field.”


The EC is already looking at other dominant airlines, but singled out BA for special treatment due to Virgin Atlantic’s complaint.


However, BA’s European rivals were staying silent over what implications the EC ruling may have on them.


Sabena general manager UK and Ireland Marc Nelis said: “The EC decision might have an influence on all airlines. But if no-one complains about Sabena, the EC is not interested.


“This is a difficult issue, as BA suggests. It is normal that you reward better distribution in some way.”


An Air France spokeswoman said the airline’s home market share was different from BA’s.


Lufthansa refused to comment on the issue. “We are aware of the matter, but do not want to enter into discussions about it,” said a spokeswoman.

Share article

View Comments

Jacobs Media is honoured to be the recipient of the 2020 Queen's Award for Enterprise.

The highest official awards for UK businesses since being established by royal warrant in 1965. Read more.