Open skies 'will make flights cheaper'

The implementation of the open skies agreement next year is likely to make transatlantic air travel significantly cheaper for holidaymakers, according to one expert.

Under the pact, airlines will be able to compete with each other on routes between Europe and the USA from March 2008, leading to the launch of more flights and widening passenger choice.

As a result, tickets are likely to come down in price, a spokesperson for the Air Transport Users Council commented.

"You can take it for granted that airlines are doing pretty well on their American routes … At the moment only some airlines can fly certain routes, but next year all routes will be available to all airlines. Fares should come down as a result," he stated.

British Airways announced earlier this week that it is adding a number of US flights to its summer schedule for next year in anticipation of the widening of the market that the open skies policy will bring.

Posted by Paul, 21 September 2007 10:30

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• British Airways