An alliance of airlines and airports has called for changes to the European Union's planned climate change legislation, arguing that it will make them less competitive with non-European rivals.
Taking Aim At Aviation
Taking aim at aviation, a sector deemed responsible for up to 3% of global emissions, the European Union presented plans last July that foresee stricter rules on CO2 emissions and the use of synthetic fuel blends, as well as the implementation of a kerosene tax.
Potential Shift In Business
The alliance, the nearly 20 members of which include all Lufthansa subsidiaries, Air France-KLM and major airports such as Frankfurt and Amsterdam's Schipol, argues that long-haul flights via non-European hubs would not be subjected to the same associated costs, leading to a potential shift in business to such carriers.
Kerosene Tax And Environmental Protection Surcharge Proposal
The alliance rejects a kerosene tax outright and proposes that the environmental protection surcharge be based on the entire flight route, not just feeder flights bringing passengers from the EU to international hubs such as Istanbul or Dubai.
In Favour Of "Fit For 55" In Principle
In principle, the alliance is, however, in favour of the EU's "Fit for 55" climate package, which aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 55% by 2030 compared with 1990 levels.
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