Air Transport Tax Cut in 2026: What German travelers need to know

The German government is moving forward with plans to reduce the air traffic tax starting next year. Christoph Ploß, Germany’s tourism coordinator and CDU member, emphasized in an interview with Bild newspaper that the recent increase in the air traffic tax must be reversed. He also called for a reduction in airport fees to prevent a further decline in flight connections at German airports.

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Tax Reversal on the Agenda for 2026 Budget

According to Bild, reversing the recent tax hike will be a “concrete issue” in the upcoming 2026 budget deliberations. The coalition government between CDU/CSU and SPD has already committed in its coalition agreement to reduce “air transport-specific taxes, fees, and charges” and explicitly to roll back the increase in the air traffic tax implemented earlier this year.

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The 2024 Air Traffic Tax Hike: What Changed?

The air traffic tax increase took effect in May 2024, significantly raising the cost per ticket across all flight categories:

• Short-haul flights: Tax increased from €12.48 to €15.53
• Medium-haul flights: Tax increased from €31.61 to €39.34
• Long-haul flights: Tax increased from €56.91 to €70.83

This tax has generated approximately €1.9 billion in revenue for the state in 2024 alone. Initially introduced in 2011, the tax has been raised multiple times, with the goal of reducing flight numbers and carbon emissions.

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Why This Tax Increase Hurts Travelers and the Aviation Industry

Christoph Ploß highlighted that the recent tax hike has made air travel, especially vacation flights, more expensive for millions of Germans. He stated, “A well-earned vacation in Mallorca must not become unaffordable.” Higher costs could lead to fewer flight connections not only from Germany to popular destinations but also inbound flights to Germany, which could harm tourism and business.

He also stressed the importance of maintaining “strong airlines, efficient airports, and a competitive aviation industry” to support the economy and travel demand.

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Why This Matters to Travelers: The Benefits of a Tax Reversal

• Lower Ticket Prices: Passengers will benefit from reduced taxes, making flights across short, medium, and long-haul routes more affordable and accessible.
• Expanded Flight Options: Airlines will be better positioned to maintain and potentially increase their route networks, offering more direct flights and convenient connections.
• More Affordable Vacations: Popular holiday destinations like Mallorca and others will become easier and cheaper to reach, helping families and travelers plan budget-friendly trips.
• Fewer Flight Cancellations: Reduced operating costs mean airlines are less likely to cancel routes, ensuring reliable service at German airports.
• Healthier Aviation Sector: Competitive fees help sustain strong airlines and efficient airports, strengthening Germany’s aviation industry and overall economy.

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