Italian Airlines Oppose Emirates Expansion Plans for Milan Routes

Italian airlines are joining forces to oppose a request by Dubai-based Emirates for expanded flying rights in Italy. Paddley Too, PYOK, and InsideFlyer all reported that the carrier is seeking permission to operate additional fifth freedom flights out of Milan. [1][4][5]

Under the proposed expansion, Emirates aims to launch fifth freedom services from Milan to Lima, Peru, as well as to Los Angeles. Paddley Too reported that the airline made an initial proposal for the Lima route after details of its plans to secure greater Italian flying rights first emerged in August. [1]

Fifth freedom rights allow an airline to carry passengers between two foreign countries as part of a service that connects to its home nation. Emirates is the flag carrier of the United Arab Emirates and operates out of its primary hub at Dubai International Airport. [6][7]

Local carriers in Italy are now mounting opposition to prevent the Dubai airline from securing the extra transatlantic and South American route permissions from Milan. Paddley Too and InsideFlyer both reported that Italian operators are actively fighting the proposal. [1][5]