European transport ministers have given authorisation for the European Commission to negotiate with Australia on a potential ‘open skies’ agreement between Australia and the European Union (EU). The EU is Australia’s largest aviation market.
The talks could deliver greater competition, more flights and lower air fares between Australia and EU countries. An ‘open skies’ agreement could remove many – if not all – of the existing regulatory limitations on Australian and European airlines operating between the two continents – allowing them to offer more flights and a wider range of services at the most competitive prices.
The agreement is expected to go beyond mere market access to include issue like competition, safety and security and environmental protection.