The European Union and the state of Qatar have signed a major aviation transport agreement relating to flights between the two destinations. Currently Qatar is the 15th most-popular destination country for EU travelers, attracting 6.3 million passengers in 2019. The intention is for the agreement between the EU and Qatar to establish a new global benchmark by including social and environmental protection amidst a commitment to fair competition from both sides.
European Commissioner Adina Vălean, responsible for mobility and transport, said: “This agreement, the first one between the EU and the Gulf region, is a global benchmark for forward-looking aviation agreements. It is testimony to our shared commitment to economically, socially and environmentally sustainable aviation, based on a modern framework covering fair competition and closer cooperation on social and environmental matters. This agreement will bring new opportunities, more choice and higher standards for passengers, industry and aviation workers.”
The agreement should also create new air transport opportunities as well as economic benefits. Going beyond traffic rights, the EU-Qatar agreement will provide a single set of rules, high standards, and a platform for future cooperation on a wide range of aviation issues. All EU airlines will now be able to operate direct flights from any airport in the EU to Qatar and vice versa for Qatari airlines. EU airports in Germany, France, Italy, Belgium and the Netherlands will be subject to a gradual build-up of capacity until 2024. There will be strong provisions on open and fair competition which should guarantee a level playing field. The parties recognized the importance of social matters, agreed to cooperate on these and to improve their respective social and labour laws and policies as per their international commitments.
