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Bulgarian and Romanian carriers want clarity on the end of inspections

They received the happy news that both countries will finally join the Schengen area

Vienna opposed the move for years, but in recent weeks indicated it could support a gradual expansion, with Bulgarian and Romanian airports included first and if a series of conditions regarding border security and migration were met.

For the transport industry in both countries, as it was also confirmed that land border controls would continue indefinitely.

Romania and Bulgaria joined the EU in 2007 and met Schengen entry criteria by 2010, but their membership of the border-free area was held up due to concerns about graft and a perception in Austria that they would do little to stop migrants from crossing their borders.

The European Commission adopted a unanimous Council decision to admit Romania and Bulgaria to the Schengen area.

The process of Romania and Bulgaria joining Schengen will start with the abolition of air and sea border controls in March 2024.