The European Commission has now come forward and voiced its concerns over a proposed venture between Iberia, American Airlines and British Airways. This venture would concern transatlantic flights.

Among some of the concerns by the European Commission is the hold that the three airlines would have on Europe to United States routes. This would include routes from London Heathrow to Miami and Dallas, which are two very big transatlantic routes.

These concerns mark the start of negotiations between the European Commission and the three carriers. Lawyers for all three airlines have the chance to respond to these concerns before a final decision is made. Before the airlines can start this venture they will need the approval of both the European Commission and United States regulators.

The European Commission went on to note that they are still looking into a very similar plan between Star Alliance members Lufthansa, United, Continental, and Air Canada and the Skyteam members Delta and Air France. This alliance has already received approval from the United States Department of Transportation, however.

British Airways has issued a statement to the European Commission, saying that it was looking forward to the opportunity to address the regulator’s concerns over the proposed venture. They went on to say that this joint business would actually be benefiting million of customers around the world. It would be providing them with discounted fares and even more convenient connections to more than 500 destinations. Either way, the European Commission and United States regulators will have the final say on whether these three airlines get the go ahead or not.