The International Airlines Group, which includes Iberia and British Airways, has been planning to take over its Spanish competitor Air Europa for several years. The project failed at the first attempt. The second attempt is now being examined in more detail by the EU Commission.

The competition authorities are currently carrying out two phase II tests, as Lufthansa's intended entry into Skyteam member Ita Airways is also being examined more closely. Already at the first attempt, the EU Commission had serious concerns about IAG's intended takeover of Air Europa. Ultimately, the project was temporarily canceled.

As the process progressed, a new strategy was developed. In the meantime, IAG was able to become a minority shareholder in Air Europa through the conversion of loans. The intention is to fully take over and merge with Iberia. However, the EU Commission announced that there are concerns that the offer on several intra-Spanish routes as well as on short and long-haul routes to/from Spain could become smaller and that prices for consumers could rise significantly as a result.

The EU Commission also announced that the Phase II test should be completed by a maximum of June 7, 2024 in accordance with legal regulations. Only then will it be clear whether the deal will be waved through - possibly subject to conditions - or whether it will be prohibited. During the review, IAG and Air Europa have the opportunity to offer concessions.