Brussels, 08/05/2014 (Agence Europe) - On Wednesday 7 May, the European Commission found public financing in the form of subsidies for infrastructure renovation at two UK airports, St. Mary's in the Scilly Isles and Land's End in Cornwall to be in line with EU state aid rules. Intended measures include the resurfacing of runways and are urgent, as the runways are close to the minimum friction level required by safety standards and the airport at Land's End has been repeatedly closed due to severe flooding. The €7.9 million investment at St Mary's does not affect competition because it is the only airport on the Scilly Isles and the runways are only suitable for small aircraft, so the Commission decided that the aid does not constitute state aid under EU rules. The €3.2 million investment at Land's End will improve the accessibility of the region of Cornwall, in line with EU transport policy goals. Moreover, distortions of competition will be limited because in contrast to other regional airports, Land's End airport offers essentially regional transport services to meet local residents' needs. (EL)