British Airlines to Launch Services to Paris Orly Amid European Deal

Strategic Insights -

The British and French governments have negotiated an agreement, set to be announced today by French Transport Minister Bernard Bosson, allowing British airlines to launch services between London and Paris Orly airport on June 13. This is earlier than the previously agreed June 30 deadline, following an 11th-hour settlement to avoid confrontation. The agreement comes after the European Commission ruled that Orly should be opened to non-French carriers, ending a long-standing Air France monopoly.

Key Takeaways:

  • British Airways and Air UK will operate up to four return trips a day between London and Paris Orly airport, starting on June 13.
  • The launch date is earlier than the previously agreed June 30 deadline, as specified in the latest European Commission ruling.
  • The French Transport Minister, Bernard Bosson, will announce the agreement today, following negotiations with the British Transport Secretary, John MacGregor.
  • Mr. MacGregor is expected to press for more flexibility on the limit of four daily flights, which applies to French as well as British carriers.
  • Air UK had planned to operate five daily flights to Orly from Stansted, exceeding the limit of four daily flights.
  • An independent European Union co-ordinating committee will meet on Thursday to consider requests from French airlines AOM and Air Liberte for more access to Heathrow.
  • Mr. MacGregor is likely to challenge a plan by Mr. Bosson to reduce congestion at Orly by banning smaller aircraft.

Statistics:

  • Up to four return trips a day will be operated by British Airlines between London and Paris Orly airport.
  • The launch date is 17 days earlier than the previously agreed June 30 deadline.
  • The agreement was finalised on Saturday, following a conference of European transport ministers in Annecy, France.

Sources:

  • "UK and France in breakthrough onplane routes", The Times (no date)
  • An unnamed news article does not provide a specific date but mentions the 11th-hour settlement.