BA in price fixing claims

The offices of several major airlines, including British Airways (BA), were raided early on February 14th.

Officials from the European Commission and US Justice Department carried out a number of "unannounced inspections" in buildings on both sides of the Atlantic, following claims that major airlines are embroiled in a price fixing scandal on cargo operations.

The commission says it has "reason to believe" that the airlines have violated EC rules on cartels. Competition commissioner Neelie Kroes has called for a "crusade" against cartels, announcing that whistleblowers will be granted leniency.

Other airlines involved are known to be American Airlines, Air France, KLM, SAS, Lufthansa and Cargolux.

British Airways confirmed that it had received a "request for information" from both authorities.

"British Airways' policy is to conduct its business in full compliance with all the applicable competition laws. BA is assisting the European commission and the United States department of justice with their investigation," the company said in a statement.

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