US rejects UK 'mini deal'
 

Reported 11 Sept



US authorities on 9 September rejected a UK proposal to amend the nations' bilateral by opening four daily frequencies from London Heathrow to US carriers, saying they are only interested in a full open skies agreement. The UK had proposed a 'mini-deal' to open two new London Heathrow frequencies next year, and a further two in 2004, but the majority of US airlines urged the US Department of Transport (DOT) to accept only a full open skies agreement. The deal would also have opened up fifth freedom rights to cargo carriers. American Airlines, British Airways, United Airlines and Virgin Atlantic Airways are the only four trans-Atlantic carriers with access to Heathrow. Several other US carriers, including Delta Air Lines, Northwest Airlines, Continental Airlines and US Airways, are seeking access to Heathrow. The proposed mini-deal could have allowed two of these carriers to launch flights to Heathrow. The DOT says the agency is willing to resume negotiations with the UK, but no date for new talks has been set.



The fun continues...

I hope US carriers don't complain about an "Our skies, our rules" attitude, I know you wouldn't 411A. But will all the relevant parties in the UK stick together? On second thoughts, "Welcome in boys and girls!"