"Territorial continuity was created to protect the Sardinians' right to mobility, as required by European regulations on public service obligations. It is not the tool that can regulate the tourism market."

In a statement, the regional councilor for transport, Barbara Manca, commented on the issue of territorial continuity. And regarding the proposed cap on fares for non-residents, which would facilitate tourism, she clarified: "The Region proposed, in discussions with the European Commission, the introduction of a cap on fares for the free market as well. This proposal was rejected because it was considered potentially harmful to free competition and therefore exposed to possible appeals or infringement proceedings. Inserting a legally fragile clause would have jeopardized the entire framework of the new territorial continuity."

Regarding the price increase warning, the department emphasizes that "simulations on routes assigned from March 29 onwards show that it is currently possible to travel any day with free market fares that rarely exceed €70, even during peak periods or high seasons. These prices are absolutely reasonable for a high-demand tourist destination during the height of the summer season or during peak holidays. It's clear that anyone who purchases a last-minute free market flight to a destination like Sardinia during peak periods cannot expect lower prices than those available to resident passengers or other eligible categories."

"The entire European market is experiencing strong demand in the face of limited supply, with fleets difficult to find and infrastructure that isn't always adequate. Similar situations are being seen in Sicily, Puglia, and even the Balearic Islands, where during the upcoming holiday periods, several fares for non-residents often exceed €100," observes Manca. "The air market not subject to public service obligations follows the same rules as all free markets. The Region has done everything legally possible to protect Sardinians and strengthen the system of preferential categories, including for the first time the relatives of residents and workers, even in the summer. Now a shared effort is needed to make Sardinia competitive year-round."