The Government is preparing to grant Mihail Kogălniceanu International Airport Constanța operating and investment aid for the years 2021-2023, totaling nearly 190 million RON, exempt from the obligation to notify the European Commission.
To ensure the operation of airport infrastructure under safety and security conditions, the National Company “Mihail Kogălniceanu International Airport – Constanța” S.A. requires the allocation of state budget subsidies to cover both operating and investment expenses—a measure which, in accordance with European regulations, constitutes state aid.
As an airport with annual traffic of fewer than 200,000 passengers, Mihail Kogălniceanu can benefit from operating and investment state aid according to European rules.
The crisis generated by the Covid-19 pandemic, the Government notes, led to an approximately 50% decrease in passenger traffic compared to 2020 forecasts, resulting in a drastic drop in the airport’s own revenues.
Based on information received so far from airlines regarding destinations to be operated in 2021 from Mihail Kogălniceanu International Airport Constanța, and considering load factor forecasts for these flights as well as uncertainty regarding the evolution of the Covid-19 epidemic, a 43.13% increase in passenger numbers is expected in 2021 compared to 2020.
Under these conditions, the airport is requesting operating and investment aid, cumulatively estimated at 189,805,000 RON. Of this amount, investment aid for the 2021-2023 period represents 94.3 million RON.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the total amount of aid granted to the airport?The total aid for the 2021-2023 period is approximately 189.8 million RON, covering both operations and investments.
Why is this aid exempt from European Commission notification?The airport qualifies for exemption because its annual traffic is below the 200,000-passenger threshold set by EU regulations.
How did the pandemic affect the airport’s finances?The COVID-19 pandemic caused a 50% drop in passenger traffic compared to forecasts, leading to a significant decrease in the airport’s internal revenues.