The changing pattern of air transport regulation

Abstract

Previous attempts to develop a more open approach to air transport regulation following the Second World War, foundered on the opposition of the major European powers. The position began to change in the 1970s, with the USA leading the way. Learning from US domestic experience, the European Community has adopted a three‐stage process of liberalization, rather than one‐off deregulation. The completion of the European internal market in January 1993 opens up the possibility of major change, but much will depend on the provision of adequate infrastructure to accommodate traffic growth and on a willingness on the part of governments to let flag carriers make their way in the market‐place.