RIGA 's The International Air Transport Association has sent a letter to Transport Ministry in which it objects to Riga International Airport's new pricing policy that effectively awards airlines bringing in more passengers.
IATA claimed that the arrangement contradicted the European Commission's 1999 decision on discounts provided by the Portuguese airport. They were found inconsistent with the EU requirements.
The ministry's aviation department director, Arnis Muiznieks, said the pricing policy would not be changed as a result of the protest, the Dienas Bizness daily reported.
"IATA always makes know its opinion, but we will contest it," Muiznieks was quoted as saying.
"No decisions will be made for now, and volume discounts will not be removed from the Riga airport price policy," he added.
Riga International Airport's price policy, which will go into effect Nov. 1, foresees airlines' actual fees dependent upon the number of passengers serviced. What's more, the passenger departure fee of 7 lats (10.5 euros) will be cancelled.
Muiznieks said that everyone had equal opportunities after accession to the EU, and Latvia was just making use of its.
Thanks to Riga Airport's new prices the discount airline Ryanair has agreed to begin flight to the country.
The airport hopes to handle some 2 million passengers next year.
