The debate the MEPs from the European Parliament’s transport committee had regarding the presentation of amendments to the draft report from Markus Pieper (EPP, Germany) on the revision of regulation 868/2004, confirmed the differences of views in tacking unfair competition from third country airlines. This debate was part of the proposal for a revision of the 868/2004 directive presented by the European Commission on 8 June last (see EUROPE 11804). This is because it has never been possible to use the current legislation. Although the draft report by Pieper was quite well received by the MEPs from the transport committee on 11 January last (see EUROPE 11937), two different visions are still pitted against each other with regard to what was presented by Dominique Riquet (ALDE, France).
On one side we have the supporters of a robust and solid text, who want to be able to effectively penalise the airlines that resort to unfair trade practices. This is Pieper’s view and his draft report is generally in keeping with the Commission's proposal, as well as the views expressed by the S&D, Greens/EFA and ALDE groups. A majority of members in these groups support investigations and binding Commission decisions in the event of there being a threat of damages or damages resulting from unfair practices.
On the other side, we find the less Europhile forces, such as the ECR group and MEPs from peripheral, Central and Eastern European countries, who are concerned that the connectivity of their regions would be affected by a regulation that is too binding. They do not consider that the threat of damages should justify the opening of an investigation by the Commission and that a suspension of flying rights should not be envisaged.
The rapporteur and the shadow rapporteurs will begin their work on Wednesday 21 February, despite the fact that Mr Pieper has already proposed compromises in view of taking into account all the different concerns. Nonetheless, he appears determined to obtain a robust text.
Work will also be continuing at the Council, where similar differences have also been observed (see EUROPE 11958). (Original version in French by Lucas Tripoteau)