Ryanair has announced plans to cut traffic through Brussels Charleroi Airport (CRL) by 1 million passengers in 2026 and another 1 million in 2027 following a rise in taxes set by the Belgian government.
What will this mean for Belgium? ©
The airline aims to cut the number of seats sold by 1.1 million after the Belgian government increased taxes by 3 euros per passenger to depart from Charleroi airport. Ryanair criticised Belgium’s move by calling it “silly”. The airline believes that these rising prices will send tourists to other EU countries instead.
Michael O’Leary, Ryanair’s CEO, commented:
“Only the Belgium Govt could be so silly to raise Aviation Taxes five-fold, at a time when Sweden, Hungary, Italy, Slovakia and Albania are abolishing their Aviation Taxes. These taxes have failed, and have damaged air travel and tourism in many EU countries, which is why they are being scrapped. In Belgium however, the De Wever Govt seems determined to fail, while others are succeeding. Having enjoyed Ryanair’s low fare growth at Charleroi and Zaventem Airport over the last 20 years, the Govt has now decided to raise aviation Taxes (by 5-fold!!) at a time, when almost all other EU States are abolishing them.”
How have other countries reacted?
Other EU countries have since abolished their aviation taxes, which has led to a steady growth in routes, seats and tourism altogether. Ryanair has now outlined its focus to promote its routes to the countries that welcome the extra air traffic.
What do you think about Belgium’s departure tax rise? Let us know in the comments.
