Italy's antitrust authorities have started an investigation into whether Alitalia, the country's leading carrier, conspired with Air Europe, Air One, Volare Airlines, Meridiana and Air Dolomiti to jointly apply a common fuel surcharge on ticket prices.
The authorities initiated an inquiry after the group of airlines applied exactly the same surcharge at the same time, even though their fuel price increases were different. A verdict is not expected before October. Heavy financial penalties could be inflicted if the alleged price-fixing collusion is proven.
Source: Flight International
