Unlocking €100 Billion: How Flight Tax Could Be Key to Combating the Climate Crisis, According to New Study

Adding a tax to airline tickets could generate over €100 billion each year to combat climate change. Research shows that flying is the most carbon-heavy way to travel, yet remains cheap because airline fuel is often untaxed.

Aviation contributes more than 2% to global greenhouse gas emissions. Interestingly, not everyone flies regularly; in developed countries, around half of the population takes a flight annually, with just 1% responsible for over half of aviation emissions.

Several nations are exploring the idea of imposing a ticket levy to raise funds, especially to aid poorer countries facing the brunt of climate change. A study by the Dutch consultancy CE Delft, commissioned by the Global Solidarity Levies Task Force, found that a levy starting at €10 for short flights could raise about €106 billion annually, increasing to €30 for long-haul flights. If the levy focused on fuel use instead, it might bring in around €84 billion, though airlines might adjust routes to avoid the fee.

Support for this levy appears strong. A survey by Oxfam and Greenpeace found that around 75% of respondents in 13 nations believe wealthy travelers should pay more taxes. Adjustments could ensure that the rich pay higher rates, and private jets could be taxed separately.

Countries like France, Kenya, and Barbados have championed this initiative, advocating for additional funding methods, including taxes on shipping and fossil fuels, collectively known as global solidarity levies. Laurence Tubiana from the Global Solidarity Levies Task Force emphasized the need for fairness, stating that while most people pay taxes on gasoline, airlines often pay little or nothing.

Currently, governments are gathering in Bonn to prepare for the upcoming Cop30 climate summit in Brazil. There’s concern that not enough focus is given to climate finance, which is crucial for helping poorer nations deal with climate-related challenges.

At last year’s Cop29 in Azerbaijan, countries pledged to make $1.3 trillion available annually by 2035, with at least $300 billion coming directly from wealthy nations. This funding is essential for supporting vulnerable communities, and the integrity of these funds is paramount.

Public sentiment is shifting. Many advocate for fossil fuel companies to fund climate damage. An Oxfam and Greenpeace poll indicated about 80% of respondents across several countries support taxing these companies. Chiara Liguori, Oxfam’s senior policy adviser, stressed that the wealthy shouldn’t profit from environmental degradation while those least responsible suffer.

As the climate crisis worsens, the push for fairer taxes on pollution could be vital. It’s not just about raising funds; it’s about making sure everyone contributes to the solution, especially those who have benefited the most from fossil fuels.



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