Ryanair today said it has evidence that the European Commission discriminates against low-cost airlines.
At a press conference this morning, chief executive Michael O’Leary released copies of e-mails received from Amex, the commission’s travel agency confirming that it is not allowed to book low cost flights or reimburse travel expenses to and from Brussels Charleroi airport.
Ryanair seeks end to 'travel ban' by EU Commission
Ryanair also released a letter from the commission’s director for administration and Payment which stated “It is true that the terms of this contract do prevent Amex from booking tickets with ‘low-cost’ airlines.”
The airline has called on the commission to explain its policy and to end the ban on budget carriers.
Mr O’Leary first learned of the policy when he was invited by the commission to be a guest speaker at a conference last year. He was informed then that he could not be booked on a Ryanair flight to Charleroi, where the airline has a hub, and was offered a ticket on Aer Lingus to Zaventem, the main airport in Brussels.
Lawyers for Ryanair filed a formal complaint with the European Court of Auditors earlier this month, asking it to assess “the legality, regularity and financial soundness” of the travel policy…..
Full story from the Irish Times….
irishtimes.com: Thursday, March 29, 2012
CHARLIE TAYLOR
The Airport Informer 