News
EU plans peak rate air tickets
06 April 2006
New proposals from the European Union could see charges imposed for peak time flights.
Although the charges would be levied by airports on airlines the cost is expected to be passed on to passengers.
The proposal came up in discussions between the European Commission (EC), airlines, airport operators and trade unions in Brussels.
European Commission vice-president Jacques Barrot said: 'I am bringing together all interested parties in order to discuss EU airport policy. I first would like to get the benefit of their expertise and viewpoints before drawing any conclusions.'
The proposals could also bring variable rates so travelling at off-peak times could result in lower charges.
Mr Barrot told the Financial Times that 'modulating charges could be very helpful', but was adamant that he had no ready-made answers.
The discussions will also try to lower the costs for passengers by introducing more competition in airport services, such as baggage handling, fuelling and freight handling, so fees to airlines are not increased.
© Adfero Ltd
Although the charges would be levied by airports on airlines the cost is expected to be passed on to passengers.
The proposal came up in discussions between the European Commission (EC), airlines, airport operators and trade unions in Brussels.
European Commission vice-president Jacques Barrot said: 'I am bringing together all interested parties in order to discuss EU airport policy. I first would like to get the benefit of their expertise and viewpoints before drawing any conclusions.'
The proposals could also bring variable rates so travelling at off-peak times could result in lower charges.
Mr Barrot told the Financial Times that 'modulating charges could be very helpful', but was adamant that he had no ready-made answers.
The discussions will also try to lower the costs for passengers by introducing more competition in airport services, such as baggage handling, fuelling and freight handling, so fees to airlines are not increased.
© Adfero Ltd
