New EU rules on airport charges could translate into cheaper flights
23 Oct 2008
Most airport charges, usually well – camouflaged, are generally passed on to passengers by airlines supposed to pay them. However, a MEP (Member of the European Parliament) debate is scheduled to determine whether a new directive, which will set the rules for how airport charges are calculated, will be supported.
The rules will have an impact on the largest European airports, and would most likely increase competition amongst them.
Supporters of the directive say an additional benefit of the rules would be more fair and transparent airline ticket pricing.
Currently, most, if not all airport charges are almost always paid by passengers as part of their ticket cost. Final ticket costs usually have air passenger duty charges, local airport tax, passenger service charges, and fuel, insurance and security costs factored in.
Reports suggest that the Transport Committee MEPs have indicated that they will support the proposed change in rules. The draft report says the committee's intention is to ensure that the directive is applicable to the largest airports in each member country, as well as to any other airports handling over five million passengers annually. Reports suggest that as of last count, 69 airports in the EU would be impacted by the change, if it is supported.
