PATA talks trade with EU
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PATA president and CEO Peter de Jong recently pointed out to EU Tourism Ministers at an informal presentation in Germany that it seems some EU policy makers are leaning towards implementing a private scheme before a global consensus was reached.
He urged the ministers to instead opt to be part of an open global system, calling on the EU to untangle its innefficient air route corridors and modernise its air traffic control systems.
He highlighted the importance of efficient control systems, pointing out that the UN estimates that a 12% innefficiency rating in global air traffic control systems would contribute 73 million tonnes of unnecessary carbon emissions.
According to Mr de Jong the EU needs to consider a global agreement now, especially considering the dramatic increases in travel between Europe and Asia, which has seen a 50% rise in numbers over the last decade.
And this trend is expected to continue, with a forecast of seven million movements over the next three years at a growth rate of 6- 7% per annum.
Inbound travel to Europe has also recorded strong growth, especially from China, with visas from China to Italy alone increasing by 72% in 2006.
In light of these statistics, Mr de Jong advised the EU Ministers not to distance themselves from Asia, but to engage with PATA as a mechanism to “unlock the doors to thousands of decisionmakers in Asia Pacific source markets – our members and your new partners in the 21st Century.”
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