Easyjet to challenge increase in airline charges at Heathrow and Gatwick

Airline Industry Information, March 25, 2008

AIRLINE INDUSTRY INFORMATION-(C)1997-2008 M2 COMMUNICATIONS LTD

UK based economy carrier Easyjet has announced that it is to seek a judicial review of price increases at Heathrow and Gatwick airports.

According to The Times, the airline has retained London law firm Lane & Partners as its adviser and told both the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) and airport operator BAA nine days ago that it intended to seek a judicial review.

A claim by the carrier is expected to be formalised to the High Court within a month.

In addition, Ireland-based economy carrier Ryanair and BMI British Midland are also likely to participate in the action.

Earlier this month the CAA had ruled that airline fees for Heathrow would rise by 23.5%, or GBP2.44, to GBP12.80 per person and a 21% increase, or GBP1.18, was announced in fees at Gatwick, increasing them to GBP6.79 per passenger.

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