Polish MEP Dariusz Joński (PPE) has submitted a parliamentary question to the European Commission regarding the planned acquisition of Czech airline Smartwings by Turkish carrier Pegasus, raising concerns over compliance with EU ownership and control rules, potential circumvention via dual citizenship, and distortion of competition. The deal, signed in December 2025, would give Pegasus sole control of Smartwings and its parent České aerolinie, impacting EU aviation market stakeholders including competing airlines, passengers, and workers.
Joński's question, filed on 3 April 2026 under Rule 144, asks the Commission to clarify when it will examine whether the transaction meets Regulation (EC) No 1008/2008, which requires effective control by EU nationals or entities. He points to Pegasus shareholders holding dual Turkish-Maltese citizenship acquired under a scheme challenged by the Court of Justice in Case C-181/23, suggesting this could circumvent EU market protections. The MEP also questions the use of special purpose entities like Pegasus Europe B.V. to meet formal ownership requirements, and warns of a dangerous precedent allowing non-EU carriers to take over EU airlines without adhering to EU environmental, social, and financial regulations, leading to lasting competitive distortions.
The Commission is expected to reply within approximately six weeks, and its answer will signal its stance on foreign ownership in EU aviation and the enforcement of ownership and control rules.