Airport News
BAA could be forced to sell
Thu, 21 Aug, 2008
The Competition Commission (CC) has called on BAA to loosen its grip on the aviation industry in the UK.
According to the organisation, the airport operator's dominance of the sector is having "adverse consequences" for both passengers and airlines.
Therefore, it has suggested that BAA considers selling some of its transport hubs, including London Heathrow Airport and London Stansted Airport.
In addition, the CC has advised the organisation to sell its facilities in either Glasgow or Edinburgh.
Christopher Clarke, chairman of the CC's inquiry group, commented: "There are significant competition problems arising from BAA's common ownership of seven UK airports."
He said this has been demonstrated by its "lack of responsiveness" to the needs of its customers.
The report has been met with a positive response by the Manchester Airports Group, which said the findings are "good news" for both airlines and passengers.