9 Feb 2013

Law change urged on airport charges

6:04 am on 9 February 2013

Labour is calling for a law change to make airport price-setting more accountable and equitable.

A Commerce Commission report says Wellington airport is abusing its monopoly position and earning millions of dollars more than is reasonable.

But the airport company says the commission has overestimated its future returns.

Labour transport spokesperson, Phil Twyford said it is time to shift airports out of a regime in which they can dictate their prices as long as they disclose them.

He said they should be moved into a system that would require them to negotiate with customers like Air New Zealand, with either party having the option to call in an independent arbitrator.