Delta seeks DOT approval for expanded codeshare with Air Europa Express

“Air Europa Express requests that its exemption authority be issued for at least two years, and that the requested statement of authorization be issued for an indefinite period consistent with the Department’s usual practice,” stated the airline. They emphasized that this partnership would commence following all necessary governmental approvals.

Air Europa and Delta have maintained a codeshare agreement since 2011. “Air Europa Express and Delta will notify the Department no later than 30 days before commencing any codeshare services covered by this application to/from non-open skies points or on routes for which they do not otherwise hold authority," they added. Notably, "Air Europa Express does not intend to operate service to or from the United States.”

Data from Cirium’s Diio Mi system indicates that in December, most of Air Europa Express’s flights were scheduled from Madrid Barajas Airport (MAD). Meanwhile, Ch-aviation data reveals their fleet includes eight Boeing 737-800 aircraft.

Both airlines are members of SkyTeam. The failed acquisition attempt by International Airlines Group (IAG) has left room for other interested parties like Air France-KLM. While IAG retains a stake in Air Europa through participation in its capital increase orchestrated by Globalia, potential negotiations continue with other entities interested in acquiring stakes in the Spanish carrier.

In August, Margrethe Vestager from the European Commission expressed concerns about competition if IAG's acquisition had proceeded: “Our in-depth analysis indicated that the merger would have negatively affected competition on a large number of domestic, short-haul and long-routes within, to and from Spain on which the two airlines compete closely.”

Globalia continues discussions regarding potential partnerships while maintaining majority ownership over Air Europa.