Ryanair to Cut 1 Million Seats in Brussels and Charleroi as Government Plans to Double Aviation Tax

International

Airline announces a 22% capacity reduction, withdrawal of five aircraft and 20 route cuts for Winter 2026/27 – warns of major economic impact

Ryanair has announced significant reductions to its Brussels and Charleroi operations for the Winter 2026/27 season, following the Belgian government’s decision to double the national aviation tax to €10 per departing passenger from 2027. The carrier also criticised Charleroi city council’s proposal to introduce an additional €3 local tax next year. Together, these measures substantially increase access costs for airlines and passengers, the company said.

The airline will cut one million seats (a 22% reduction), withdraw five based aircraft representing a US$500 million investment, and drop 20 routes across Brussels Airport and Brussels South Charleroi Airport. Ryanair stated that the repeated increases make Belgium uncompetitive at a time when other European governments – including Sweden, Hungary, Italy and Slovakia – are reducing or abolishing aviation taxes to stimulate growth. Germany has also reversed an earlier plan to raise its aviation taxes.

Appeal to Belgian government

In letters sent to Prime Minister De Wever, Transport Minister Crucke, Wallonia’s Minister of Airports Cécile Neven, and the Mayor of Charleroi Thomas Dermine, Ryanair called for an immediate reversal of the tax increases. The airline warned that Belgian passenger numbers could “collapse” and fares could rise sharply if the tax is doubled.

Ryanair argues that abolishing the aviation tax would drive traffic, boost tourism and support employment. According to the airline, repeated tax rises in other markets such as Austria and Germany have led to reduced growth and higher fares.

Statements from Ryanair

Jason McGuinness, speaking on behalf of the airline, said the government’s decision to double the tax “bizarrely” follows a previous 150% increase introduced in July. He stated that the combined effect renders Belgium uncompetitive:

“These repeated increases make Belgium completely uncompetitive compared to many other EU countries where governments are abolishing aviation taxes to drive traffic, tourism and jobs.”

McGuinness added that the planned Charleroi tax could trigger further cuts as early as April 2026, placing thousands of local jobs at risk:

“If Prime Minister De Wever and his government really wanted to revive Belgium’s economy, they should abolish this harmful aviation tax, not double it.”

He also warned that the local tax proposal in Charleroi would reduce flights, routes and aircraft at the airport and undermine payroll, VAT and corporate tax revenues.

Ryanair maintains that the government must act swiftly to prevent further economic repercussions for Belgium’s aviation sector and the wider economy.