The European Commission stated it has opened an in-depth investigation into International Airlines Group’s planned purchase of Spain’s Air Europa.
The Commission, which oversees EU antitrust policy, stated it had concerns that the proposed transaction would reduce competition for Spanish domestic routes and on international routes to and from Spain.
IAG stated in response that the deal would boost Madrid’s competitiveness and benefit consumers, adding that it would continue to work with the European Commission.
A EU executive said it had 90 working days until November 5 to take a decision and that the airlines had decided not to submit potential remedies during the initial investigation.
“IAG, which flies with Iberia and Vueling among others, and Air Europa are leading airlines in Spain. They are also key providers of connectivity between Spain, the rest of Europe and Latin America,” Commission executive vice president Margrethe Vestager said in a statement.
“We will carefully assess whether the proposed transaction would negatively affect competition on domestic, short-haul and long-haul routes to and from Spain, possibly leading to higher prices and reduced quality for travellers,” she continued.
She added that, although the financial situation of many airlines was still fragile, it was important that the recovery of the sector took place in a competitive environment, preserving choice for customers.
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