Belgian government to increase aviation tax again, raising concerns among airlines

The Belgian federal government plans to further increase the country’s aviation tax in the coming years, a move that is expected to affect millions of departing passengers and has already sparked strong criticism from airlines operating in Belgium. According to reports by Belgian broadcaster VRT, the so-called “vliegtaks” or embarkation tax will gradually increase in the coming years as part of broader budgetary measures. The tax applies to passengers departing from Belgian airports, including Brussels Airport and Charleroi Airport.

The measure is not entirely new. Belgium already increased its aviation tax in 2025, with charges on certain flights rising by as much as 150%. At the time, airlines warned that the additional costs would weaken Belgium’s competitiveness compared to neighbouring countries.

Low-cost carrier Ryanair has been among the most vocal opponents of the tax hikes. Earlier this year, the Irish airline accused the Belgian government of harming tourism, employment and connectivity by making air travel more expensive. The carrier argued that Belgium was moving in the opposite direction of several other European countries that are reducing or scrapping aviation taxes altogether.

In August last year, Ryanair announced it would freeze growth in Belgium for the Winter 2025 season, directly blaming rising airport fees and the higher aviation tax.

The airline later escalated its criticism, announcing plans to remove five aircraft from Belgium and cut around one million seats from its Belgian operations after the government confirmed additional tax increases from 2027 onward. Ryanair warned that the measures could lead to route cancellations and reduced connectivity from both Brussels Airport and Charleroi Airport.

Under the planned changes, taxes on short-haul and longer intra-European flights are expected to rise gradually over the next few years. The government argues the measure forms part of environmental and budgetary objectives, although airlines insist the policy risks pushing passengers and airlines towards airports in neighbouring countries instead.

Industry groups have repeatedly warned that Belgium already ranks among the more expensive aviation markets in Europe due to airport charges, taxes and operational costs.

While the tax increase may only add a few euros to an individual ticket, airlines stress that the cumulative impact on route profitability can be significant, particularly for low-cost carriers operating on thin margins.

The Belgian government has not yet published the final legislative texts for all planned increases, but the measures are expected to be included in upcoming budget and programme legislation.