U.S., France Sign ‘Open Skies’ Deal
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The United States and France signed an agreement liberalizing air service between the countries and allowing Delta Air Lines and Air France to broaden their transatlantic alliance.
The “open skies” accord signed by Transportation Secretary Norman Y. Mineta and his French counterpart, Jean-Claude Gayssot, covers passenger, cargo and charter service.
The U.S. now has reached such agreements with 56 nations, including 21 in Europe.
The agreement allows Delta and Air France to proceed with plans to broaden the SkyTeam alliance with Alitalia and CSA Czech Airlines. The United States had previously reached open skies deals with the Czech Republic and Italy.
The department gave final approval Jan. 18 to Delta and Air France’s application for antitrust immunity so they can more closely coordinate fares, schedules and revenue.
The Transportation Department is considering a similar application from American Airlines and British Airways.
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