IP/09/562

Brussels, 08 April 2009

Commission approves public financing of infrastructure investments in five regional airports in Tuscany

Italy's plan to support infrastructure investments aims to comply with aviation safety standards at Tuscany airports and to develop safe and viable air transport infrastructure, thereby supporting the creation of an integrated regional airport system. The measure will thus enhance the connectivity of the Tuscany region with the trans-European transport networks.

The Commission concluded that the public financing of infrastructure improvements at Tuscany airports do not prejudice the common interest and that the criteria set out in the applicable Community framework^[1] are complied with.

The Commission's approach is in line with the 2007 Action Plan for airport capacity, which emphasises the importance of regional airports to the development of an integrated European air transport network. The availability of an efficient, predictable and sustainable national transport network is a key factor underpinning economic growth and competitiveness.

^[1] Community guidelines on financing of airports and start-up aid to airlines departing from regional airports