Air France-KLM faces 310 million euro fine from EU Commission

Air France-KLM is facing a significant fine from the European Commission, amounting to 310 million euros, due to violations related to price agreements in the air cargo sector. The fines are divided among the group and its sister companies, with Air France-KLM receiving 124.4 million euros, KLM 2.7 million euros, and Air France 182.9 million euros. These penalties stem from actions taken between December 1999 and February 2006, where the airlines were found to have engaged in mutual price agreements. The European Commission initially imposed fines in 2010, which were annulled by the General Court of the European Union five years later. However, the Commission pursued the matter further, issuing a new decision that was better substantiated. This decision was subsequently challenged by the airlines, who sought to have the fines withdrawn or reduced. The case has now reached the European Court of Justice, where the Advocate General has indicated that there is no justification for annulling or reducing the fines. The court's decision is anticipated in the coming months, which will determine the final outcome of this protracted legal battle. This situation highlights the ongoing scrutiny of airline practices regarding pricing and competition, as well as the European Commission's commitment to enforcing regulations against anti-competitive behavior in the aviation industry. The outcome could have significant financial implications for Air France-KLM and its subsidiaries, as well as set a precedent for future cases involving similar violations.