Low-cost carrier Ryanair has declared it will suspend operations from several regional airports in France, pointing to a dramatic tax increase as the primary reason for the decision.
The Tax Hike That Grounded Flights
Ryanair's commercial director, Jason McGuinness, confirmed the plans, revealing that a 180 per cent tax increase has made numerous regional airports financially unviable for the airline. This tax change is part of the French government's 2025 Budget, which will add an extra €4.77 per ticket for all domestic and European flights departing from France.
The new tax regime, scheduled for implementation in summer 2026, has already prompted action. Mr McGuinness told French magazine Challenges, 'We will be leaving several regional airports in France this summer.' He starkly added, 'When you increase taxes by 180 per cent, it makes these airports unviable for us.'
Previous Cuts and Future Warnings
This is not the first time Ryanair has taken such measures. Earlier this year, the airline removed destinations including Strasbourg, Bergerac, and Vatry from its schedule. McGuinness has now warned that more French airports will be added to this list in the coming months.
The dispute extends beyond short-haul flights. The tax hike also significantly raises costs for other travel sectors:
- Short-haul business class flights will see an extra €30 (£26) charge.
- Tickets for long-haul flights are set to increase by €120 (£105).
Industry Backlash and Government Standoff
Ryanair's outspoken CEO, Michael O'Leary, has been a vocal critic of the policy, previously branding the tax hike 'unjustified'. He argued that the aviation industry does not contribute a large amount of revenue and warned that the airline would limit its travel capacity across France if the government proceeded.
O'Leary even suggested that Ryanair could double its annual passenger numbers in France by 2030 if the government reversed its decision. In response, French transport minister Philippe Tabarot has accused the airline of using 'aggressive' tactics to evade its obligations.
The confrontation has already led to concrete reductions in service. This winter, Ryanair will cut its flights to France by 13 per cent and will completely halt journeys to and from Bergerac and Brive airports, which serve the popular Dordogne region for British tourists. Services to Strasbourg will also cease.
