A threat to competition, consumer choice, and connectivity: the reality of the EU Airport Slot Regulation

ACI EUROPE has accentuated its calls for an urgent update to the EU Airport Slot Regulation. In a letter addressed to EU Transport Commissioner Vălean, ACI EUROPE President Javier Marín praised the Commission’s efforts in preparing for a revision of the 30-year-old Regulation but emphasised the need for concrete action to future-proof the single aviation market.

The existing EU Airport Slot Regulation, formulated at a time when national airlines reigned supreme and competition was limited, is largely shaped by principles set by incumbent airlines for incumbent airlines. With the emergence of low-cost carriers, evolving market dynamics, and increasing airport congestion, the shortcomings and loopholes in the current regulation have become apparent.

More than half of the world’s most congested airports are in Europe, and the situation is expected to worsen as creating new airport capacity becomes increasingly challenging. Updating airport slot rules is therefore essential to safeguard the interests of consumers and regional connectivity, especially in the face of airline consolidation through mergers, market exits, or attrition.

ACI EUROPE’s letter to Transport Commissioner Vălean, which was also shared with Competition Commissioner Vestager, underscores the urgency and importance of modernising the EU Airport Slot Regulation.

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