asked the Minister for Transport and Power if he will indicate the advantages and disadvantages for Aer Lingus if the company opted out of IATA.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Aer Lingus Membership of IATA.
20.
Mr. O'Donnell
The main benefits of IATA membership to Aer Lingus and other airlines arise from the machinery which that organisation provides for dealing with matters of common interest such as settlement, subject to Government approval, of international fares and rates, inter-airline arrangements, common ticketing, standardisation of procedures and clearance of accounts. The organisation plays an important role in furthering safety and the orderly development of civil aviation. It also carries out research to which member airlines have access.
I can see no particular disadvantages to Aer Lingus in being a member of IATA.
Mr. O'Donnell
Would the Minister say whether it would be permissible for Aer Lingus to set up a subsidiary, a non-IATA charter company?
The Deputy will have to ask a specific question on that.