The Environment Committee of the European Parliament has rejected amendments suggested by the EU Council aimed at cushioning the aviation sector from the impact of the EU emissions trading scheme.

On the contrary, it reintroduced amendments stating that EU airlines should become integrated in the EU pollution-control scheme by 2011 - as originally suggested by the European Parliament.

During the meeting, MEPs voted for an increase in the share of emission permits to be granted and auctioned by airlines and to lower the ceiling on emissions.

Most European airlines, including Air Malta, oppose the introduction of aviation into the scheme arguing this will push up the cost for passengers.

During a meeting last year with Transport Commissioner Jacques Barrot, Air Malta's chief executive officer Joe Capello had voiced concern over the Commission's proposals arguing that it puts an unfair burden on companies like Air Malta which are based on the periphery of the EU. He had argued that aviation is by far the cleanest mode of transport and should not be penalised by increasing its costs.