The ACCC has flagged concerns over Qantas’ surprise acquisition of a 19.9% stake in Alliance Airlines.
Preliminary competition concerns have been raised by the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) over Qantas’ acquisition of a 19.9% interest in Alliance Airlines in February.
The move blindsided the charter operator, which at the time confirmed it had not received any approach from Qantas prior to the announcement.
The ACCC has today released a statement saying it considers this shareholding “has the potential to impact Alliance’s further growth and its ability to be a strong competitor”, emphasising Alliance is a “close, important and growing competitor to Qantas, including through its partnership with Virgin”.
The consumer watchdog will continue its investigation into whether this acquisition is likely to have the effect of substantially lessening competition.
More details in today’s edition of Travel Daily.