DOT May Revoke Exemption on Some International Flights

he Department of Transportation has proposed to withdraw antitrust immunity from tariff-coordination meetings held by the International Air Transport Association that discuss and set passenger fares and cargo rates for U.S.-Europe and U.S.-Australia flights.

DOT said it has tentatively concluded that changes in international aviation services such as the growth of international airline alliances have made such pricing conferences unnecessary.

The department also said that European Union and Australian competition authorities have tentatively determined to end or reduce the IATA conferences’ immunity from their own competition laws.

DOT said that parties may file objections its tentative decision, and that any objections are due by Aug. 25. The department said it will make a final decision by the end of the year.