EU signs milestone aviation deal with Qatar

EU signs milestone aviation deal with Qatar

The European Union and Qatar this week signed a milestone Comprehensive Air Transport Agreement, providing airlines from EU countries + Qatar with free access to each other’s markets, fewer restrictions, and greater air liberalisations.

Following a difficult pandemic, the EU – like much of the rest of the world – is only too aware of the need to rebuild economies. Global connectivity is one of the main drivers of trade and tourism and contributes directly to economic growth and job creation. The new EU-Qatar deal will focus on boosting passenger numbers, trade, cargo, aid, business, leisure and contribution to local economies across the EU, while providing a commercial boost to Qatar’s national carrier airline, Qatar Airways amid the expanded market access.

Currently, all EU Member States, except one, have bilateral aviation agreements with Qatar. These agreements have already completely liberalised direct traffic between Qatar and all but five EU Member States, for which some restrictions are still in place. However, none of these agreements cover fair competition, financial transparency, the environment, or social issues, which are critical for improving the sustainability of aviation and for ensuring a level playing field.

The new agreement, signed this week, will replace all EU