'Opposition to Air Tax Increase' French Pilots Announce Strike on 14th

Opposition to Approval of Aviation Tax Increase
SNPL "Increase Without Consultation... Industry to Face Losses"

French airline pilots are set to strike for one day on the 14th (local time) in protest against the government's and National Assembly's increase in aviation taxes, according to France Info.

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A spokesperson for the pilots' union (SNPL) stated, "In response to the government's move to collect an additional 1 billion euros (1.4 trillion won) annually from the aviation industry, we urge pilots and all industry workers to take action on the 14th," adding, "A rally will be held near the National Assembly on that day."

The French National Assembly approved the government's proposal to increase aviation taxes for one year during the budget review process on the 8th.

According to the increase plan, for economy class, flights to Europe will see the tax rise from the current 2.60 euros (3,800 won) per person to 9.50 euros (14,000 won), while medium- and long-haul destinations will see the tax increase from the current 7.50 euros (11,000 won) to 15 euros (22,000 won) and 40 euros (50,000 won), respectively.

For business class, short-haul flights will increase from 20 to 30 euros (29,000 won to 44,000 won), and medium- and long-haul flights will rise from 63 euros (93,000 won) to 80 euros (120,000 won) and 120 euros (178,000 won), respectively. Since the aviation tax is included in the ticket price, passengers will bear the increased cost.

The French government, aiming to reduce the fiscal deficit expected to be 6.1% of GDP this year to 5% next year, is seeking additional tax revenue and proposed the aviation tax increase as part of this effort. It also added that raising the aviation tax could reduce carbon emissions by discouraging aircraft use.

However, the union criticized, "The tax was increased without any consultation with industry workers," and warned, "Additional taxes in a situation where the industry is barely recovering from the COVID-19 crisis will ultimately lead to the loss of tens of thousands of jobs."

Charles de Courson, a centrist lawmaker who voted against the bill, also stated, "The unprecedented tax burden will reduce Paris's competitiveness as an aviation hub."