Airports risk bruising battle with airlines over terminals

[dArKeR]

AFP , GENEVA

After offering prestige terminals, business lounges, and air-conditioned gangways, airports are now risking a bruising battle with big airlines to offer cheaper terminals with a flavor of the spartan heyday of aviation.

Air France on Thursday threatened legal action against Geneva International Airport's pioneering decision to move ahead with a low-fee terminal, where passengers can expect minimalist service and a walk onto the windswept tarmac.

Budget competitors Easyjet and Virgin Express are lining up as the first clients for the cheap terminal late next year, which Singapore and Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia are ready to emulate, industry officials said.

http://www.taipeitimes.com/News/worldbiz/archives/2004/07/12/2003178734