Belgian passengers are set to face higher ticket prices from 2027 as the Federal Government confirmed another increase to the national flight tax — the second hike in just four months. The decision, part of the latest budget agreement, has angered airlines who say the repeated rises are weakening Belgium’s position in European aviation.
Under the updated policy, every flight departing from a Belgian airport will carry a €10 embarkation tax. Currently, the tax varies by distance: €10 for flights shorter than 500 kilometres and €5 for longer routes. The government says the new flat rate “harmonises” the system, but airlines argue it simply doubles the burden on most passengers.
The agreement also goes a step further for short-haul flights. In 2028, the tax will rise to €10.50, and by 2029 it will reach €11 per ticket. These increases arrive at a moment when several European countries are actually reversing or scrapping similar levies. Airlines for Europe (A4E), the continent’s largest airline association, called the move “astonishing.”
Managing Director Ourania Georgoutsakou told The Brussels Times that aviation is being unfairly targeted whenever governments face financial pressure. “Aviation cannot continue to be the punching bag every time governments are strapped for cash,” she said.
Low-cost carrier Ryanair was even more direct, warning that doubling the tax will make Belgium “even less competitive” compared to markets such as Sweden, Hungary and Slovakia.
The airline argued that the policy undermines efforts to boost connectivity, investment and travel affordability. CCO Jason McGuinness criticised the government for “hammering ordinary Belgian passengers with another reckless aviation tax hike.”
Brussels Airlines echoed these concerns, emphasising that other countries are moving in the opposite direction. Italy and Germany have lowered their aviation taxes, while Sweden has abolished them entirely.
“The previous increase only dates back to July,” noted Brussels Airlines spokesperson Nico Cardone. He stressed that connectivity remains one of Brussels’ biggest strengths, particularly as the capital of the European Union.
Cardone added that the new tax cannot be absorbed by the airline and will inevitably be passed on to customers. This, he warned, risks discouraging travellers and weakening Brussels’ role as a major international hub.
A4E’s Georgoutsakou highlighted the broader economic impact, stating that aviation taxes “hurt families and businesses and depress economic growth.”
She questioned why Belgium continues to raise fees while neighbouring states roll them back. “People vote with their wallets when they fly,” she said, pointing to the risk of passengers choosing foreign airports to avoid higher charges.
Despite the criticism, the Belgian Government remains confident in the measure’s revenue potential. By 2027, the tax is expected to bring in €168 million annually, rising to €189 million by 2029, according to financial projections reported by De Tijd. However, industry observers warn that high taxes may suppress travel demand, reducing the expected returns.
Belgium’s rates remain lower than those in the Netherlands, where a sharp increase from 1 January will push the air passenger tax to €29.40 for all flights under 2,000 kilometres.
The UK is also set to raise its aviation levy from 2026. Still, airlines argue that constant increases — rather than occasional adjustments — risk driving passengers away and undermining the sector’s recovery.
As Belgium prepares to implement its latest aviation tax rise, airlines are urging the government to reconsider its strategy. With regional competitors lowering or scrapping similar fees, the industry fears Belgium may be isolating itself and jeopardising its long-term connectivity and economic appeal.
This article was created using automation technology and was thoroughly edited and fact-checked by one of our editorial staff members
