Spanish low-cost airline Vueling has received clearance from the European Commission (EC) to take over up to 18 daily slots at Paris-Orly Airport (ORY).
Vueling will begin operations in the newly allocated slots from November 2021.
The slots handed over to the airline will be relinquished by Air France to meet one of the conditions for its government bailout.
In April, the EC authorised the French Government to infuse up to $4.6bn (€4bn) for the recapitalisation of struggling carrier Air France and in return, Air France agreed to give up 18 slots a day at Paris-Orly Airport to a competing carrier.
EC executive vice-president and in charge of competition policy Margrethe Vestager said: “Following an open procedure, Vueling will obtain 18 of the daily take-off and landing slots at Paris Orly Airport, currently held by Air France.
“This will enable Vueling to expand its activities at this highly congested airport, helping to ensure fair prices and increased choice for European consumers.
“It also helps ensure the significant capital support to Air France enabled the airline face financial difficulties resulting from the coronavirus outbreak, without unduly distorting competition in the single market.”
With this decision, Vueling will obtain 18 daily slots at Paris-Orly Airport and begin operations on new slots from November.
Part of International Airlines Group (IAG), Vueling has a fleet of over 100 planes and a presence in France and Italy.
With a fleet of more than 300 aircraft, Air France is a major network airline operating in France.
