At one time, ground handling was probably the least competitive business segment within the airports sector in Europe. Slowly but surely, it has been liberalised to the point where airports are expected to allow at least two ground handling providers (including their own, if they choose to indulge in that activity, or that of a dominant airline). Now the European Commission (EC) is reported to be on the verge of compelling airports to allow at least three such providers. It is at least one EU initiative that seems to have had some success, but what level of company will really benefit?
