Lufthansa Calls For Suspension Of Eu-qatar Open Skies

Lufthansa is calling for the suspension of the EU-Qatar Open Skies Agreement, citing corruption concerns and unfair competition.

The agreement was signed between the European Union and the Star of Qatar in October 2021 and has been provisionally applied since then, with the aim of enhancing connectivity, expanding flight options and establishing fair competition rules between airlines on both sides.

The key objectives of Open Skies agreements are to open markets for air services between countries for both passengers and cargo. In theory, the EU-Qatar agreement, should benefit travellers by introducing more routes, increased frequencies and competitive airfares.

Lufthansa has voiced strong opposition to the growing market access granted to Gulf carriers under the agreement. The airline contends that the deal creates an uneven playing field due to disparities in market conditions and social policies.

Calls for the agreements suspension have intensified following allegations of corruption in its negotiation process.