Brussels, 07/06/2001 (Agence Europe) - After an informal meeting held at the end of May between the European competition authorities and the head of General Electric (GE), the American conglomerate proposed to sell off the regional transport aircraft engine branch of Honeywell International in order to end the reservations of the European Commission concerning its planned merger with the latter. In fact, the Commission opened a second investigative phase over this operation, fearing that the merger would lead to a dominant position in the markets for aircraft engines and aeronautical electronics (see EUROPE of 3 March, p.10). It should rule next 12 July, while the American authorities have already given their assent. Despite this concession, the European authorities could nevertheless block the plan, due to fears with regards to Gecas, the aircraft rental subsidiary of GE. It could in fact grants discounts to airline renting the Gecas planes if they use avionics equipment from Honeywell. This Friday, Jack Welsh, GE President, should meet Commissioner Monti in order to discuss possible solution to the problems raised and submit, according to the Financial Times, several proposals.