Commission adopts state aid guidelines for airports and airlines

On 20 February 2014, the European Commission will adopt the new guidelines for state aid to the aviation sector in the EU, which will replace the 1994 and 2005 aviation guidelines.

The new state aid guidelines for airports and airlines will set out how member states can support airports and airlines in line with EU state aid rules. During a transitional period the new rules will in particular provide compatibility criteria for operating aid to airports, which is not allowed under the current guidelines.

Background

Member states' public funding of airports and airlines is currently assessed by the Commission under the 2005 Aviation Guidelines. These guidelines contain provisions for assessing public support measures to airports and for the start-up of airline services from regional airports.

In view of the significant market changes that have taken place over the last decade, the Commission initiated a review, with a first public consultation in 2011 (see IP/11/445). In light of the submissions received, the Commission reviewed the existing rules and consulted the public on revised draft guidelines in July 2013 (see IP/13/644).

At the same time the Commission is working on about 50 state aid cases (including 32 formal investigations) in the aviation sector.

The Commission is reacting to changing market realities. The new guidelines will aim at ensuring that taxpayers' money is well-spent and that a level playing field is preserved in the Single Market between airports and airlines, regardless of their business models (from large hubs to regional airports and from flag carriers to low-cost airlines).

More information

Competition consultations
Vice President Almunia's website
Air transport - Airport logistics and passenger rights
European Airports

Share this article: