EU, Switzerland Sign Ninth-Freedom Air Rights Deal

The European Union (EU) and Switzerland have recently signed an agreement to further deepen their aviation relationship, marking a significant milestone in their long-standing cooperation. This new agreement, which is part of a broader suite of revised accords, includes the introduction of ninth-freedom traffic rights for air carriers from both jurisdictions.

Ninth-freedom traffic rights allow carriers from one region to operate domestic flights within the other region. Specifically, Swiss-certified airlines will now have the freedom to fly within the EU, while EU-based airlines can operate within Switzerland. This development marks a significant expansion in the liberalization of air traffic between the two entities, as previous agreements only provided for international traffic rights, excluding cabotage rights.

The new agreement also addresses the harmonization of state aid rules, including aviation, aligning Swiss laws with those of the EU. This harmonization is expected to streamline operations and create a more consistent regulatory environment across both regions.

However, before the agreement can take effect, it must undergo approval by the Council of the European Union, the Swiss parliament, and the European Parliament. Once approved, it will provide new opportunities for air carriers and enhance connectivity between Switzerland and the EU.

This agreement is seen as a positive step in further integrating the aviation markets of the EU and Switzerland, offering benefits such as expanded route options, increased competition, and improved services for passengers traveling between the two regions.

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Sources: AirGuide Business airguide.info, bing.com, ch-aviation.com