There are only two things that are certain in life… and we’re going to be talking about one of them today. Of course, its taxes – and in particular – aviation taxes.
Airlines for Europe pulled out this gem at the Routes Europe 2017 Conference in Belfast on Sunday. One to make you think how much all those aviation taxes add up.
EU passengers were “fleeced” by more than €5.6bn in aviation taxes in 2016, claims @A4Europe #routeseurope pic.twitter.com/7TRWA6V5tJ
— Pippa Jacks (@philippajacks) April 23, 2017
Airlines for Europe broke down the numbers – and if accurate – it’s a massive amount of money at €5.6 billion charged in taxes.
A breakdown of the numbers of the top “offending” countries includes:
- United Kingdom – €3.6 billion
- Germany – €1.1 billion
- Italy – €600 million
- France – €220 million
- Austria – €100 million
Data – Airlines for Europe.
Where all this money goes – of course – into the government coffers where it gets spent how government cash gets spent.
And it’s not surprising that the UK leads the way with its Air Passenger Duty – however simplified it is, with at least €3.6 billion raised through the programme.
Or as I expressed:
If you’re surprised…. you honestly shouldn’t be. https://t.co/qwqx6jp8FE
— Kevin-Economy&Beyond (@EconomyBeyond) April 23, 2017
Airlines for Europe go on to explain how much travel rises after lifting of government air travel fees
Evidence shows getting rid of aviation taxes GROWS passenger numbers, claims @A4Europe #RoutesEurope pic.twitter.com/w91imRA7iu
— Pippa Jacks (@philippajacks) April 23, 2017
Whilst there are reasons for aviation taxes (mainly to prop up government spending), Airlines for Europe does present a case for why they don’t work and who loses out.
But will governments be so willing to let go of comparatively easy money? I doubt it sadly.
H/T and thanks to Pippa Jacks – @philippajacks who sat in the conference at Routes Europe 2017 and getting those lovely captures.
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