what Tristar is trying to say is that under EU law no carrier is allowed to be subsidised by it's own government, it's deemed to be unfair competition. Now some majors in Europe (Air France, Lufthansa) dont see why they should compete with other airlines who dont have to pay for fuel etc but can still operate on routes into their countries. It does go against the regulations and they will be challenging in the courts. They have already won against Ryanair and feel a precedent has been set. Should be very interesting times, especially with the price of oil right now. The playing field may be a bit more level in the future.