We’re very much in favor of Open Skies between the United States and the European Union. Despite the shortcomings of the plan, the overall benefits are distinctive.
The Guardian reported that the United Kingdom would approve the deal despite the “American advantage.” Their concern now is that the valuable slots as London Heathrow might be used by carriers for flights to the states instead of regional service. Reuters reports that to combat this, they are seeking a one-year delay in opening transatlantic flights at Heathrow to wider competition. However, the U.S. considers the negotiations to be complete.
The European Parliament called on lawmakers to approve the deal when it comes to vote on March 22nd. The Parliament pointed out that in order to reach a second-stage agreement that will hopefully allow them the additional rights they want, they must approve the initial agreement. And if there is no agreement on that by mid-2010, they can suspend the existing agreement.
If the EU transport ministers refuse to back the Open Skies pact, then Transport Commissioner Jacques Barrot will be forced to take nations to the European Court of Justice for refusing to give up their own bilateral aviation pacts with the United States, which the court has declared illegal.
On the US side, Continental issued a press release supporting Open Skies, and all such Open Skies agreements, as long as they create “a fair and level playing field.”
In an unrelated Open Skies note, the Open Skies agreement with Canada was signed.