European Commission investigates IAG’s acquisition of Air Europa

The European Commission has confirmed that it has opened an in-depth investigation to assess the proposed acquisition of Air Europa by IAG, under the EU Merger Regulation. The Commission states that it is concerned that the proposed transaction “may reduce competition in the markets for passenger air transport services on Spanish domestic routes and on international routes to and from Spain”. Executive Vice-President Margrethe Vestager, responsible for competition policy, said: “IAG, which flies with Iberia and Vueling among others, and Air Europa are leading airlines in Spain. They are also key providers of connectivity between Spain, the rest of Europe and Latin