newstodate.aero
Mar 20, 2015 (newstodate): The future of Air Lituanica is a hot topic in the country, also highlighted by the outgoing Vilnius mayor's final support to the carrier in the form of a 4.3 mio euro grant to the ailing company.
The Lithuanian Ministry of Transportation is of course keeping a watchful eye on the development as the carrier obviously needs a solution to its demand for fresh capital to sustain operations.
-The state will definitely not consider playing a role as a majority stakeholder while not excluding some kind of involvement as a minority owner, says Arijandas Sliupas, vice-minister of transport & communications.
-There are, however, many other ways in which the state can support airlines in order to secure the country's connectivity that is crucial to us. These measures include incentive schemes, airport charges schemes, route development funds and marketing support, all in line with EU's strict regulations on state aid to the industry.
-These measures are company-neutral and thus apply to any carrier adding traffic and connectivity to Lithuania.
-In the case of supporting Air Lituanica that I would of course very much like to see staying in the air, it all depends on the model for their future operations. If a significant partner steps in, or if the carrier merges with other partners we will indeed support this in any way allowed by EU regulations, be it as shareholder or not.
-In any case, experience proves that direct state ownership should be kept as low as possible, and this holds true for Lithuania as well, says Mr Sliupas.
The Lithuanian Ministry of Transportation is of course keeping a watchful eye on the development as the carrier obviously needs a solution to its demand for fresh capital to sustain operations.
-The state will definitely not consider playing a role as a majority stakeholder while not excluding some kind of involvement as a minority owner, says Arijandas Sliupas, vice-minister of transport & communications.
-There are, however, many other ways in which the state can support airlines in order to secure the country's connectivity that is crucial to us. These measures include incentive schemes, airport charges schemes, route development funds and marketing support, all in line with EU's strict regulations on state aid to the industry.
-These measures are company-neutral and thus apply to any carrier adding traffic and connectivity to Lithuania.
-In the case of supporting Air Lituanica that I would of course very much like to see staying in the air, it all depends on the model for their future operations. If a significant partner steps in, or if the carrier merges with other partners we will indeed support this in any way allowed by EU regulations, be it as shareholder or not.
-In any case, experience proves that direct state ownership should be kept as low as possible, and this holds true for Lithuania as well, says Mr Sliupas.