Brussels, 17 September 2024– Airlines for Europe (A4E) is urging Commissioner-designate Apostolos Tzitzikostas to adopt a pragmatic regulatory approach that prioritises a strong and competitive European airline industry, best positioned to accelerate progress towards net zero carbon emissions. In its alternative Mission Letter, A4E outlines key areas that the new Commissioner for Transport should focus on:
- Reforming Europe’s airspace
- Accelerating production of alternative technologies and fuels
- Tackling carbon and business leakage
- Completing the single aviation market
The recent report by Mario Draghi on European competitiveness highlights that transport is among the EU’s key strengths. However, “a persistent lack of EU integration and low competition” continue to undermine capacity and connectivity across Europe. The incoming Commission now has an opportunity to prioritise transport and address these issues to enhance air travel for the millions of Europeans who rely on it daily.
Commenting on the unveiling of Ursula von der Leyen’s second Commission, Ourania Georgoutsakou, Managing Director of Airlines for Europe (A4E), said:
“Transport is fundamental to the success of the European Union we see today and countries like Greece are heavily reliant on air transport. Commissioner-designate Tzitzikostas has a growing in-tray; from reforming airspace to tackling carbon and business leakage, and completing the single aviation market.”
“Competitiveness is the buzzword in Brussels right now, and it is central to enabling Europe’s airlines to contribute to the sustainable transition. By tackling the challenges outlined in our alternative Mission Letter, Commissioner-designate Tzitzikostas can help ensure airlines continue to serve Europe and play their part in flying towards a sustainable future.”
Notes to Editor
Commissioner designate Apostolos Tzitzikostas has been assigned the Sustainable Transport and Tourism portfolio. A4E’s alternative mission letter is available here.
Media Contact:
Kevin Hiney: Communications Director, A4E
Tel: +32 499 82 82 94
Email: kevin.hiney@a4e.eu
About A4E
Airlines for Europe (A4E) is Europe’s largest airline association. Based in Brussels, A4E works with policymakers to ensure aviation policy continues to connect Europeans with the world in a safe, competitive and sustainable manner. With a modern fleet of over 3,600 aircraft, A4E airlines carried over 718 million passengers in 2023 and served nearly 2,100 destinations. Each year, A4E members transport more than 5 million tons of vital goods and equipment to more than 360 destinations either by freighters or passenger aircraft. A4E is #Flyingforourfuture with our commitment to Europe and our call to action for incoming European policymakers. Find out more at Flyingforourfuture.eu