European Airlines and Unions Urge EU to Pause Qatar Air Agreement
European airline lobby groups and labour unions have called on the EU to temporarily suspend its aviation agreement with Qatar, citing competition and market balance concerns.
Jishan Khan 
European airline lobby groups, supported by aviation labour unions, have asked the European Union to temporarily suspend its aviation agreement with Qatar, raising concerns about competitive balance in the region’s airline market.
Industry representatives argue that the agreement has increasingly tilted competition against European carriers as Gulf airlines continue to expand rapidly across international routes. Labour unions have echoed these concerns, warning that unchecked competition could impact jobs and working conditions within Europe’s aviation sector.
The call reflects broader debates over open aviation agreements and their long‑term impact on domestic airlines. Stakeholders believe a pause would allow EU authorities to reassess the deal and ensure fair competition for all operators.
EU regulators have not issued an official response so far. The issue is expected to remain under discussion as Europe balances global aviation partnerships with the sustainability of its airline industry.
