The proposed merger of the cargo operations of Air China and Cathay Pacific has been given the green light by the European Commission to fly in Europe’s air space.

The EC concluded that the acquisition would not significantly impede effective competition in the European Economic Area, saying the routes they operate are mostly complementary.

Air China Cargo is currently a wholly-owned subsidiary of Air China and is the country’s largest all-cargo airline. If the merger goes ahead, the two carriers will have joint control of a cargo airline that will operate international services from Shanghai and Beijing.