Italy checks airlines on ticket pricing for Sicily
2022.12.28 12:43
Italy checks airlines on ticket pricing for Sicily
Budrigannews.com – Ryanair, Wizz Air, and easyJet are among the airlines that have been the subject of an investigation by Italy’s antitrust regulator into the possibility of price fixing for flights into and out of Sicily (LON:).
The regulator stated in its weekly bulletin that the investigation was initiated in response to a complaint filed by the consumer group Codacons, which alleged “a specific collusive will” of airlines to raise prices for domestic flights to and from Sicily during the Christmas holidays.
The objection likewise designated state-possessed ITA Aviation routes, the replacement of previous lead transporter Alitalia, it added.
easyJet and Wizz Air denied any wrongdoing in statements to Reuters.
It stated, “EasyJet strongly refutes these claims, adheres to relevant laws and regulations, and will fully cooperate with the authorities to demonstrate it has always acted lawfully and competitively in the best interests of consumers.” This statement was made in response to the allegations.
“Strenuously denies the allegations of any misconduct,” Wizz Air stated, adding that it had “always acted in line with the relevant applicable legislation” and was prepared to collaborate with authorities and support the ongoing investigation.
In addition, ITA Airways denied any wrongdoing. According to Italian news agency AGI, Chief Executive Fabio Lazzerini stated that there is no cartel and that the company is willing to cooperate with all authorities.
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The cost of flights is especially important in Sicily because many Sicilians live and work in northern or central Italy and typically want to return to the island for Christmas.
The antitrust authority stated that its investigation would be finished by the year’s end.
