ABSTRACT
The transition from restrictive economic regulation of international air transportation to liberalisation, de-regulation and open skies makes it necessary to regulate and control free competition. Competition in the international air traffic market only is acceptable on agreed conditions as there is no level playing field and in many cases the competitors are not in comparable or equivalent positions.
Privatisation and internationalisation of the airline industry gradually will dilute the still overriding nationality aspects of international air transport.
The role of government will become more acute in the field of aircraft safety, airline reliability, the infrastructure and the protection of the environment.
