Brussels, 25 January 2024
The European Commission has opened an in-depth investigation to assess, under the EU Merger Regulation, the proposed acquisition of sole control of Air Europa Holding, S.L. (‘Air Europa‘) by International Consolidated Airlines Group, S.A. (‘IAG‘). The Commission has preliminary concerns that the transaction may reduce competition in the market for passenger air transport services on several domestic, short-haul and long-haul routes in and out of Spain.
The Commission has until 7 June 2024 to take a decision. The opening of an in-depth investigation does not prejudge the outcome of the investigation.
Executive Vice-President in charge of competition policy Margrethe Vestager said:
“IAG and Air Europa are leading airlines in Spain and key providers of connectivity within the country and between Spain, the rest of Europe and Latin America. With our in-depth investigation, we want to make sure that the transaction does not negatively affect the prices or the quality of passenger air transport services in and out of Spain”.
A press release is available online.
Source – EU Commission