Air France denounces “irresponsible” measure

The government wants to increase the tax on plane tickets. An increase which triggers anger at Air France which fears a loss of customers who will leave from Switzerland or Belgium when they can.

The government confirms that it is in favor of increasing the solidarity tax on plane tickets, says TSBA. “It's irresponsible” according to the boss of Air France KLM, very critical of the government's desire to apply this increase. This measure had already been proposed by the Barnier government this fall, before being rendered obsolete by censorship.

In its latest version voted by the Senate, this tax ranged from 9.50 euros for economy class flights to European destinations, to 120 euros for long-haul business class. This increase has already been widely criticized in recent weeks by airline unions.

Air France calls for “fair rules”

The general director of Air France, Ben Smith, does not have harsh enough words regarding this possible tax increase. “Irresponsible”, an “access tax to France”…. According to him, customers will cross the Belgian or Swiss border as soon as possible to avoid this increase in ticket prices. With very clear economic consequences on aviation activity in France.

So Ben Smith appeals to the government: “We are not asking for freebies, just a level playing field.” And precisely, barely a week ago, Budget Minister Amélie de Montchalin affirmed her desire to maintain this tax, as proposed in the fall budget. The senators had set an increase between 9.50 euros and 120 euros per ticket depending on the duration and class of the flight. A measure confirmed by a government source on Sunday evening.