The European Commission, Parliament, Council, and the European External Action Service are named as buyers in a contract described as “fully or partially financed with EU funds.”
International travel is crucial for top officials in these institutions as they engage with foreign leaders and give speeches globally. Although the EU prioritizes commercial transport, the Commission stated that it is sometimes impossible or unsafe, especially for staff visiting conflict zones.
No company has been awarded the “non-scheduled air-taxi transport services” contract worth €15.67 million, despite being tendered for over a year. The previous four-year contract from 2021 was just over €12 million.
The earlier agreement, slated to expire at the end of 2025, has been extended until June as the tender process continues, according to the Commission.
The estimated cost increase considers “the broader geopolitical context and increased volatility in international affairs, which may lead to more short-notice travel needs,” said a Commission spokesperson.
Market changes, such as “higher aircraft charter rates and fuel costs,” have also been included in the projections, the spokesperson added.
Leave a Reply