European regional airlines have raised concerns over the current regulatory framework, which they argue fails to acknowledge the diversity and complexity of Europe's aviation network. The European Regions Airline Association (ERA) represents numerous small and regional carriers, claiming that uniform regulations place undue pressures on these airlines and threaten vital intra-European connectivity.
According to ERA, roughly a quarter of intra-European capacity is concentrated on just 5% of routes, while the majority of short-haul routes with fewer than 50,000 seats annually are served by only one airline, limiting choices for travelers and creating vulnerabilities.
Call for Tailored Regulations
ERA’s leadership has advocated for a regulatory approach that recognizes the operational differences among carriers, emphasizing that resilience in the aviation network cannot be taken for granted. They argue that smaller markets and their routes require specific considerations to maintain service levels and competition.
"Europe needs a regulatory framework that recognizes the diversity of its aviation network,"
said Montserrat Barriga, ERA director general. Jesper Rungholm, CEO of Danish Air Transport, echoed these sentiments, emphasizing that current regulations may not suffice in protecting smaller carriers and the network's overall resilience.
The European Commission is reportedly finalizing its future Aviation Strategy, which is anticipated to incorporate measures addressing these issues. Industry stakeholders remain hopeful that the new strategy will enhance flexibility and support the sustainability of Europe's regional airline sector.
