The UK’s Competition and Markets Authority flagged competition concerns over the merger of Korean Air Lines and Asiana Airlines.
The CMA believes the Korean Air takeover will likely lead to higher fares and reduced quality of service for London to Seoul flights.
The airlines are the only two flyiing direct routes between the UK and South Korea.
It would also impact competition on cargo flights.
“They are the two main players and risks customers paying over the odds,” said Colin Raftery, Senior Mergers Director at the CMA:
“Should Korea Air and Asiana Airlines fail to address this, the deal will progress to a more in-depth investigation.”
The KAL-Asiana business has until November 21 to address the CMA’s concerns.
