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The European Commission has approved the merger between ITA Airways and Lufthansa, following concessions from both airlines to address competition concerns. These remedies were proposed to mitigate fears of monopolistic control over specific markets, which had been a point of concern for Brussels.
To address these concerns, easyJet will expand its short-haul network in Italy by opening new bases at Milan Linate Airport and Rome Fiumicino Airport starting next spring. Additionally, Air France-KLM and the International Airlines Group (IAG) are set to enhance intercontinental connections from Italy, particularly focusing on North American routes.
The Commission's apprehensions revolved around potential monopolies on short-haul routes between Rome or Milan and central European airports, long-haul routes to North America, and slot allocation at Milan Linate Airport. To counter these issues, it was suggested that easyJet boost its short-haul services while Air France-KLM and IAG facilitate long-haul connectivity.
