Claus BASSE

Claus Basse is the Vice President of International and Government Affairs at Emirates Airline, a position he has held since September 2024 after serving in various senior roles within the company since 2012. With over 12 years of experience in global aviation and government affairs, Basse is a seasoned professional adept at navigating complex regulatory and political environments. He specializes in removing barriers to air travel, advocating for consumer choice, and promoting sustainability within the airline industry. His expertise includes influencing and negotiating with governmental, political, and industry stakeholders to shape public policy favorable to Emirates and the broader aviation sector. Basse is recognized as a trusted advisor and company ambassador, skilled in strategy formulation, economic impact modeling, and regulatory risk management. Prior to joining Emirates, he gained experience in public affairs consulting and European institutional relations, including a role at Fleishman-Hillard in Brussels and a position at the Danish Permanent Representation to the EU

Claus Basse’s lobbying efforts for Emirates Airline are deeply intertwined with advancing the interests of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) in the global aviation sector, particularly within the European Union (EU). Emirates, as a flagship carrier of Dubai and the UAE, relies on Basse to advocate for policies that enhance the airline’s operational freedom, market access, and competitive position in Europe and beyond.

His lobbying agenda focuses on several critical EU regulatory files, including external aviation policy, emissions trading schemes, passenger rights regulations (such as Regulation 261/2004), aviation safety standards (EASA Basic Regulation), and broader EU strategies like the Aviation Strategy and Fit for 55 climate goals. These areas are vital for Emirates to maintain and expand its network, manage environmental compliance costs, and ensure favorable conditions for its aircraft operations and passenger services.

Basse’s true and strategic intention is to secure a regulatory environment that supports Emirates’ growth ambitions while aligning with the UAE’s broader economic diversification and international trade objectives. By engaging EU policymakers, Basse works to mitigate restrictive policies that could limit Emirates’ access to European markets or impose disproportionate costs. His efforts also aim to position Emirates as a sustainable and consumer-friendly airline, which helps improve the airline’s perception and influence within the EU.

Moreover, Basse leverages his deep understanding of EU institutions and aviation policy to pre-emptively address emerging regulatory challenges, such as Brexit implications and airport charges directives. His lobbying is not only about reactive defense but also proactive shaping of policies to foster a competitive and innovative aviation sector that benefits Emirates and, by extension, the UAE’s economic interests

Claus Basse has been actively engaged in numerous high-level meetings with EU Commissioners, cabinet members, and directors-general to represent Emirates Airline’s positions. Between 2014 and 2025, he participated in at least 18 documented meetings with key EU officials, including Commissioners responsible for transport and mobility, such as Violeta Bulc and Apostolos Tzitzikostas.

For example, in June 2016 and April 2016, Basse attended meetings with the Cabinet of Commissioner Violeta Bulc to discuss aviation policy, which coincided with significant EU regulatory developments affecting the airline industry. In November 2015, Basse met with both the Emirates CEO Tim Clark and EU officials in Brussels and Dubai, underscoring the strategic importance of these dialogues in shaping aviation regulations.

These meetings have influenced outcomes such as the revision of passenger rights regulations, adjustments in emissions trading schemes, and the EU’s Aviation Strategy, which collectively impact Emirates’ operational framework. Basse’s role often involves exchanging views on regulatory proposals, advocating for balanced policies that consider Emirates’ business model, and addressing concerns related to sustainability and consumer protection.

His lobbying activities also include economic impact modeling and producing advocacy materials to support Emirates’ positions. Basse’s presence in Brussels and Dubai facilitates continuous engagement with EU policymakers, ensuring that Emirates’ interests are well-represented in ongoing legislative debates. This persistent advocacy has helped Emirates navigate complex regulatory landscapes, maintain market access, and adapt to evolving EU climate and safety standards

LinkedIn: Claus Basse – Vice President International and Government Affairs at Emirates Airline (linkedin.com/in/claus-basse-0b627024)
Office Address: Emirates Group HQ, Airport Road, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Phone Number: Not publicly disclosed
Email: Not publicly disclosed
Website: Emirates Airline official website (emirates.com)
Social Media: Emirates Airline official social media channels (LinkedIn, Instagram, Twitter) where Claus Basse’s activities and Emirates updates are occasionally featured

No direct personal contact details such as phone or email are publicly available due to privacy and corporate policies.

This profile consolidates Claus Basse’s professional background, lobbying focus, and activities related to Emirates Airline and the UAE’s interests in the EU aviation sector based on publicly available information.