EU Matters

A new 5 year term at the European Union

A new 5 year term at the European Union

Two of the primary EU institutions operate on 5 year terms which expire this year – the European Commission and the European Parliament. So how does this year’s change in Brussels affect the outlook for air transport in Europe? Robert O’Meara reports. Additional reporting by Federico Bonaudi.

ACI EUROPE pushes for crisis relief at European and national levels

On 13 March 2009, ACI EUROPE unveiled a comprehensive crisis  strategy focused on five key crisis relief measures aimed at helping the aviation sector weather its worst ever crisis.

EU to suspend ‘use-it-or-lose-it’ rule on airport slots

Following a proposal from the European Commission on 7 May, the European Parliament adopted a proposed Regulation that suspends the ‘use-it-or-lose-it’ rule on airport slots for the 2009 summer season (ending on 26 October). It is a decision that ACI EUROPE believes will hit airports hard at a time when they themselves are feeling the effects of the economic crisis. Ross Falconer reports.

EU Directive on Airport Charges – a workable compromise

Final adoption of the EU Directive on Airport Charges by the Council of Ministers took place on 19 February. It is the culmination of a process that began in January 2007 when the European Commission initially proposed the Directive – a process during which ACI EUROPE has participated actively in discussions with all the EU institutions involved. Entry into force in EU Member States will take place by early 2011. Ross Falconer reports.

Ryanair/Charleroi ruling positive for Small and Regional airports

In December last year, the European Court of First Instance annulled the European Commission’s decision on advantages granted by Belgium’s Walloon Region and Charleroi Airport to low-cost carrier, Ryanair. The case has thrust the issue of state aid back into the spotlight and the decision has potentially positive consequences for SMAG members (Small & Medium Sized airports Action Group). Ross Falconer reports.