SWAC says Exeter is one of the UK's fastest growing airports

Devon County Council is planning to sell it to the company which runs Bristol Airport.

But critics say the move is anti-competitive and will mean Exeter will be reduced to a support role.

The EC, which is asking for the views of customers and competitors, can block deals if they are considered to break competition laws.

It is expected to report by 2 August whether an investigation is required.

The county council wants to sell the airport to South West Airports Consortium (SWAC).

Criticism has been raised because SWAC is owned jointly by international airport groups Macquarie and Ferrovial which have a substantial interest in Bristol International Airport.

West Country entrepreneur Peter De Savary, who was involved in an opposing bid for Exeter Airport, has raised his concerns about the sale.

He said: "I can't see how this can be seen as anything but a conflict of interests. Exeter can only lose out."

South West Euro MP Caroline Jackson has welcomed the EC's move, saying she was also concerned about Exeter losing out.

She said: "The trouble is that Exeter may become subordinate if it is owned by the same people who own Bristol.

"We want to see South West consumers making use of a local airport and avoid having flights concentrated at Bristol."