Acquisition of the Czech airline Smartwings by the Turkish carrier Pegasus

Priority question for written answer P-001369/2026
to the Commission
Rule 144
Dariusz Joński (PPE)

In December 2025, an agreement was signed for the sale of shares in Czech Airlines (České aerolinie, a.s.), and consequently its subsidiary Smartwings, as a result of which Pegasus will acquire sole control of the airline.

• 1.When does the Commission intend to examine whether this transaction complies with Regulation (EC) No 1008/2008, including the requirement of effective control by EU nationals or entities, in particular in light of the fact that some Pegasus shareholders hold dual Turkish-Maltese citizenship acquired under a scheme challenged by a judgment of the Court of Justice (C-181/23), and whether, taking such individuals into account when assessing the ownership structure, the transaction does not constitute a circumvention of provisions protecting the EU market from control by non-EU entities?
• 2.Does the Commission consider it acceptable to use legal structures whereby non-EU entities establish special purpose entities within the EU (e.g. Pegasus Europe B.V.) solely to meet formal requirements concerning ownership and control?
• 3.When does the Commission intend to analyse whether this transaction creates a dangerous legal precedent enabling the takeover of EU airlines by non-EU entities that are not subject to EU environmental, social and financial regulations, thereby leading to a lasting distortion of competition?

Submitted: 3.4.2026