Competition Law in the Aviation Sector

Hear directly from Birthe Panhans, Deputy Head of Unit, DG Comp, European Commission on the policy developments in the aviation sector, followed by a Q&A to address your burning questions.

Analyse t“Fit for 55“ package, how competition policy can support the Green Deal objectives and how the reviewed Horizontals Guidelines approach collaboration and cooperation for sustainability aims within the aviation sector.

Consider how regulation is addressing post-pandemic challenges including sanctions, ATOL issues-post Brexit and consumer protection concerns in the aviation sector. 

Discuss the state aid COVID-19 temporary framework after the pandemic and its impact on the level playing field, the Commission’s recent decisions in airports and airlines cases and the latest national level developments.

What lessons can be learnt from recent successful and collapsed mergers, including IAG/Air Europa, Air Canada/Air Transat and others? How are global authorities approaching mergers? What is the impact of COVID-19 on consolidation in the sector? Analyse these key questions, then join a separate session on alliances and joint ventures. 

Learn about the changing trends in ticket distribution, the impact of the new Vertical Block Exemption, e-tickets and data concerns, including Digital Markets Act (DMA) and Data Access Act; and the role of third parties, travel agents and platform sites from a competition law perspective.