The European Commission has approved under EU state aid rules Germany’s plans to grant Air Berlin a temporary €150 million bridging loan.
“The measure will allow for the orderly wind-down of the insolvent airline Air Berlin without unduly distorting competition in the Single Market,” said Commission.
“On 15 August, Germany notified the Commission of its intention to grant a bridging loan to Air Berlin.
“This followed Etihad, Air Berlin’s main shareholder, withdrawing its financial backing for the loss-making company.
“The German public credit institution KfW will provide a credit facility of up to €150 million to Air Berlin over the next months.
“The purpose of the loan is to allow Air Berlin to continue operations in the coming months, with the aim of maintaining its services while it concludes ongoing negotiations to sell its assets.
“At the end of the process, Air Berlin is expected to cease operating and exit the market.”
The Commission found that the measure will help to protect the interests of air passengers and to maintain air passenger services.