Competition regulator orders rethink on Heathrow charges

For free real time breaking news alerts sent straight to your inbox sign up to our breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Now’s the time for a fundamental review of how these charges are set, ensuring that customers are protected ahead of shareholders Virgin Atlantic spokesperson Meanwhile, the CMA agreed with Heathrow that the application of an adjustment in relation to the recovery of revenues lost due to the coronavirus pandemic was “inappropriate given the extreme impact” of the virus crisis. “Going forward, the CAA needs to take more account of the views of consumers so that the settlement delivers the Heathrow experience passengers are looking for and not just higher profits for airlines.” Luis Gallego, chief executive of British Airways’ parent company IAG, said: “Heathrow’s charges remain among the highest in the world and are not competitive. “We would like to work with the CAA to improve the regulatory framework for the future.” A Virgin Atlantic spokesperson said: “Following more than three years of regulated consultation on Heathrow charges, it’s disappointing that the CMA has largely endorsed the CAA’s decision, which did not go far enough to protect consumers from excessive charges at Heathrow. “Heathrow must work collaboratively with airlines to ensure it gets back to its best, so it can deliver a world class experience commensurate with being the world’s most expensive airport.” CAA chief economist Andrew Walker said: “We welcome the final determination by the Competition and Markets Authority that has largely supported our decision.