EU and USA consider 'open skies' pact

A proposed pact between the European Union and the USA to open up the market for transatlantic flights could signal an increase in services between the two regions.

On Friday an agreement was reached to consider the terms of an "open skies" pact that could lead to 26 million more passengers flying between Europe and the USA over the next five years as a result of more airline competition.

Airlines based in Europe would be allowed to fly across the Atlantic from any country, rather than just from the country of their headquarters - which could lead to more flights taking off from Heathrow Airport.

The pact would also lead to a financial boost for the global economy and the creation of 80,000 new jobs, the EU said.

"This can be considered a major breakthrough," said Michele Cercone, spokesman for EU transport commissioner Jacques Barrot.

A meeting on March 22nd will determine whether or not the plans are approved, with the agreement potentially coming into effect from October 28th.

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