In a draft recommendation published on Friday 30 January, Johan Danielsson MEP (S&D, Swedish) has proposed that the European Parliament approve the conclusion of the air transport agreement between the United States of America and the EU, as well as with Iceland and Norway.
In the explanatory memorandum, the rapporteur gave an overview of the procedure. In April 2007, the European Union signed a comprehensive air transport agreement with the United States, amended by a protocol signed in June 2010. It broadens and deepens the aviation agreement, introducing provisions aimed at establishing an extensive aviation partnership with benefits for consumers, airlines and workers. In May 2011, the European Commission presented the Council of the EU with a proposal for a decision on the conclusion of this agreement and an ancillary agreement with Iceland and Norway on the application of the Air Transport Agreement between the United States and the EU (see EUROPE 10095/7, 11950/27). In October 2025, the EU Council sent a letter to the European Parliament requesting its approval.
The MEP noted that, since 2007 and pending its entry into force, the agreement has been applied on a provisional basis. It has generated considerable economic benefits for both parties. Since the 2010 Protocol, the EU-US passenger market has grown substantially, with transatlantic seat capacity increasing steadily over the long term and recording strong year-on-year growth in recent years, particularly in 2023-2024, he said.
In addition, the agreement has liberalised market access, capacity, pricing and connectivity between the US and European aviation markets, increasing competition and delivering significant benefits to passengers. In 2024, almost 77 million passengers travelled between the United States and Europe, a record figure well above pre-pandemic levels, reflecting sustained demand on this key intercontinental corridor.
As far as cargo is concerned, Mr Danielsson pointed out that the United States remains one of the largest extra-EU air freight markets, accounting for more than 20% of all goods transported by air to or from the EU.
Read the draft recommendation: https://aeur.eu/f/kk6 (Original version in French by Anne Damiani)