Cargolux files appeal against EC’s decision
Cargolux has decided to file an appeal against the fine imposed by the European Commission in connection with allegations of cartel activities in the air cargo industry. Sharon Gill reports …
In November last year, the EU Commission fined Cargolux Airlines International and ten other airlines a total of Є799.4 million. Cargolux was fined Є79.9 million. After careful consideration, Cargolux has decided to file an appeal against the Commission’s decision. The airline has declined to comment further on the pending case. Cargolux, along with a number of other airlines, has been subject to investigation by antitrust authorities around the world: Australia: In 2009, as a result of an investigation by the Australian Competition & Consumer Commission (ACCC), Cargolux agreed to pay A$5 million in price-fixing penalties. New Zealand: In 2008, New Zealand’s Commerce Commission initiated proceedings in the High Court in Auckland against Cargolux and twelve other airlines for extensive and long-term cartel activity in the air cargo market. South Africa: In 2010, the South African Competition Commission (SACC) referred cases of collusion in the air cargo market to the Tribunal for adjudication, involving Cargolux and seven other airlines. South Korea: In 2010, the Korea Fair Trade Commission (KFTC) imposed fines totalling 119.54 billion won on nineteen airlines. Cargolux was fined 2.05 billion won. Canada: In 2010, Cargolux pleaded guilty in a Canadian Federal Court and was fined $2.5 million for its role in an air cargo cartel affecting Canada. US: In 2009, Cargolux and a number of other cargo airlines entered into plea agreements with the US Dept of Justice following an investigation by the DOJ’s Antitrust division. Cargolux agreed to pay a fine of US$119 million. In October 2010, two of the airline’s senior executives were indicted. And in a class action lawsuit, Cargolux reached a settlement agreement of US$35.1 million. Quelle: eyefortransport Portal: www.logistik-express.com |