The EU Commission is increasing the pressure on the French government and Air France in terms of renewed state aid: In Paris-Orly, take-off and landing rights must definitely be given to competitors, otherwise there will be no approval for the granting of funds.

The French Finance Minister Bruno Le Maire announced: “We have a framework agreement with EU Commissioner Margrethe Vestager on new financial aid for Air France”. Previously, a solution was struggled for weeks because Air France was not prepared to give slots to competitors in return for state aid. Now it's up to the airline: If they want the money, they have to hand over take-off and landing rights in Paris-Orly. Otherwise there is no money from the French state.

Originally it was said that 24 pairs of slots would have to be assigned. Le Maire did not want to confirm this number in a TV interview and said that it would be less. The exact number is therefore not yet generally known. It cannot be ruled out that this will still be negotiated behind the scenes.

Not surprisingly, Ryanair was quick to speak up: “Commissioner Vestager has to hold its own in her talks with the French government. Either Air France does not receive state aid or appropriate remedial action should be taken to ensure a fair and level playing field for all airlines. This must include Air France giving up capacities at major French airports. The 24 daily slots in Paris Orly, referred to in some media reports, are not enough and the Commission has to go further. "