Ryanair Slams Belgium’s Aggressive Tax Strategy, Announcing Massive Reductions In Flights, Routes, And Aircraft, Pushing Tourism And Jobs To The Brink

Published on December 12, 2025

Belgium’s plan to double airport taxes has triggered a strong reaction from Ryanair, which has announced significant cuts in its operations at Charleroi and Brussels airports. The airline argues that the tax hike, which includes both federal and local levies, will drive up travel costs, reduce tourism, and harm the local economy. Ryanair points out that while other EU countries are reducing taxes to boost aviation and tourism, Belgium’s move could push airlines to scale back flights and routes, threatening jobs and investments. This drastic tax increase risks undermining Belgium’s competitiveness in the European aviation market.

A proposed tax hike in Belgium is causing a stir across the European aviation sector, with potential consequences for both travelers and airlines. Ryanair, one of Europe’s largest low-cost carriers, has vehemently opposed the plan to increase airport departure taxes at Charleroi Airport by as much as double the current rate. The move, expected to take effect from 2027, would see the existing federal tax, which currently stands at five euros per passenger, rise to 10 euros per passenger. The proposal is part of Belgium’s broader strategy to finance airport infrastructure and comply with new environmental regulations.

The additional cost burden for passengers doesn’t stop there. Charleroi Airport’s city council has also suggested implementing a new local tax of three euros per passenger on flights departing from the airport. This combination of higher federal and local taxes could substantially inflate the cost of flying, raising concerns about the future competitiveness of Belgium’s airports compared to neighboring hubs.

Ryanair has been vocal in its criticism of the proposed tax increases, arguing that the additional charges would push passengers to opt for cheaper alternatives at nearby airports such as Paris-Beauvais and Lille. The airline has already taken steps in response to the proposed changes, announcing plans to reduce its winter 2026/27 flight schedule by a significant margin. Ryanair has confirmed it will cut one million seats from its Brussels-based operations, affecting 20 routes in total. The airline believes that this move directly contradicts the policies of other EU countries, such as Slovakia, Sweden, Italy, and Hungary, which are reducing or even eliminating aviation taxes to boost tourism and stimulate local economies.

According to Ryanair’s statements, Belgium’s decision to raise the aviation tax would place it at a significant disadvantage. The airline’s executives argue that while other European countries are making efforts to reduce the financial burden on the aviation sector, Belgium is heading in the opposite direction, which they claim could harm the country’s tourism and overall economic health. As a result of the tax hike, Ryanair predicts a reduction of 22% in its Brussels traffic, equating to the loss of one million seats, as well as a withdrawal of five aircraft from its Charleroi base, which represents a $500 million investment. Additionally, the airline will be forced to cut 20 routes, including 13 from Charleroi and seven from Zaventem, which could further impact local job opportunities.

The airline’s frustrations also extend to the Charleroi City Council’s proposal for additional passenger taxes. Ryanair warns that if these plans are carried out, further cuts in flights, routes, and aircraft stationed at Charleroi will follow. The airline estimates that thousands of local jobs could be at risk, and the cuts could start as early as April 2026. Ryanair is urging the Belgian government to reconsider the proposed tax hikes, arguing that reducing aviation taxes would not only bolster the country’s tourism sector but also stimulate job creation and economic growth.

Belgium is a popular destination for tourists, receiving over 18 million visitors each year, with around 1.3 million of them hailing from the UK. The proposed tax increase is viewed as a way to help fund necessary upgrades to airport infrastructure and meet stringent environmental standards. However, critics argue that the move could undermine Belgium’s competitive edge in the European tourism and aviation markets, potentially diverting tourists to more affordable neighboring destinations.

Ryanair’s stance highlights the broader concerns within the aviation industry regarding the impact of rising taxes on the sector. Airlines, particularly low-cost carriers, operate in an environment where ticket prices are heavily influenced by external factors such as airport fees and taxes. Any increase in these costs can make air travel more expensive for consumers, leading to reduced demand and, ultimately, fewer flights. In turn, this could slow down the recovery of the aviation industry following the COVID-19 pandemic, which has already seen a significant impact on international travel.

Ryanair’s calls for action are not isolated. The airline’s executives have pointed to the example set by other EU nations, which have implemented tax cuts to support the recovery of their tourism and aviation sectors. By reducing taxes, these countries aim to encourage more people to travel and stimulate spending in the local economy. In contrast, Belgium’s proposed tax increases may have the opposite effect, discouraging travelers from visiting the country and potentially driving airlines to scale back their operations.

The debate over aviation taxes in Belgium underscores the tension between government efforts to raise funds for infrastructure and environmental goals, and the needs of the aviation industry, which relies on competitive pricing to attract passengers. As the situation unfolds, it remains to be seen whether the Belgian government will reconsider its approach or proceed with the proposed tax hikes, which have already sparked significant opposition from the airline industry.

The impact of these changes is likely to be felt not only by airlines but also by local businesses and the broader Belgian economy. With tourism being a vital sector for the country, any measure that discourages visitors could have long-term economic consequences. As such, it is crucial for policymakers to carefully consider the potential fallout from these proposed tax increases and explore alternative ways to fund airport infrastructure while maintaining a competitive aviation sector.

The proposed tax increases at Belgium’s airports, particularly Charleroi, have ignited a significant debate in the aviation and tourism sectors. While the government’s aim is to fund infrastructure projects and meet environmental standards, critics argue that the move could harm the country’s tourism industry, reduce flight options, and lead to job losses. The outcome of this proposal will have wide-reaching implications for both the Belgian economy and the broader European aviation landscape.