European transport ministers meeting on Tuesday in Luxembourg included a provision on financial transparency in the negotiating mandates for Bulc, targeting any market-distorting aid to Emirates, Etihad Airways and Qatar Airways. The ministers also approved similar mandates for accords with Turkey and the Association of South East Asian Nations (ASEAN).

“These agreements will offer new business opportunities to the whole aviation sector, new routes and better fares to passengers, while guaranteeing a level playing field to our companies,” Bulc said after receiving the ministerial green light.