State aid: Commission consults on new state aid rules for airports and airlines

Joaquín Almunia, Commission Vice-President in charge of competition policy, said: "Our aim is to ensure that taxpayers' money is well-spent and goes where it is truly needed. The next state aid guidelines will be a key ingredient for a successful and competitive European aviation industry, preserving fair competition regardless of the business model - from flag carriers to low-cost airlines and from regional airports to major hubs".