The German aviation industry is calling for a reduction in the country’s air travel tax, following recent decisions by airlines Eurowings and Ryanair to cut flights from German airports, citing high operational costs.
The push for tax relief was led by Jens Bischof, chairman of the German Aviation Association and CEO of Eurowings. Speaking to the Frankfurter Allgemeine Zeitung, Bischof emphasized the need for more affordable flying options, stating, “Flying costs must remain affordable. The air transport tax must be abolished. Sweden has set an example.”
High Costs Impacting German Airports’ Competitiveness
Germany’s airport fees are considered among the highest in Europe, a factor that many in the industry believe is hampering the country’s competitiveness in the aviation sector. The current air travel tax adds between 15 euros ($16) and 70 euros ($76) to each ticket, depending on the flight distance.
Originally introduced as an environmental measure, the tax is now also being used for other governmental purposes, further increasing the financial burden on airlines and passengers. This has sparked industry-wide concern that the high costs could drive more airlines to reduce their presence in German airports, exacerbating the situation.
With growing pressure from industry leaders, the debate over the future of Germany’s air travel tax is likely to intensify in the coming months as stakeholders seek a balance between environmental responsibility and maintaining competitiveness in the European aviation market.
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