After conducting a market investigation into pricing algorithms in passenger air transport to and from Sicily and Sardinia, the Authority has opened talks with the European Commission on the initiatives required to foster price comparability and improve competition

The market investigation into pricing algorithms in passenger air transport on routes to and from Sicily and Sardinia continues to draw attention to the need for greater transparency. This is why, having received feedback from airlines following the publication of its Preliminary Report, the Authority has opened talks with the European Commission on the adoption of initiatives within its remit aimed at increasing the comparability of airfares and thus improving competition in the relevant markets. Air transport is heavily regulated at EU level and this also affects price transparency and comparability.

The Preliminary Report outlining the main findings of the Authority’s market investigation has raised potential concerns on the transparency and comparability of airline ticket prices. Feedback on the Report from stakeholders, along with subsequent analysis, continues to point to poor comparability in the way flight ticket and ancillary service prices are displayed to users. This lack of comparability complicates flight searches for customers and limits their awareness of price components when making purchasing decisions, as the actual price of airline tickets is difficult to determine and compare.

The significance of price comparability lies in the fact that almost half of air passengers purchase ancillary services, particularly seat selection, carry-on baggage and checked baggage. Moreover, these services account for a considerable share of the revenues generated by airlines. This is why, in order to foster demand mobility and, as a result, promote price-based competition among companies, the Authority considers it crucial to adopt mechanisms that enable full and effective price comparability, including for ancillary service fees.

Rome, 3 July 2025