The French government, under the leadership of newly appointed Prime Minister François Bayrou, has moved forward with previously proposed increases in the Airline Ticket Solidarity Tax. Effective March 1, 2025, the revised tax applies to all domestic and international flights departing from France. Originally set to take effect on January 1, 2025, the increase was delayed due to the collapse of the previous administration in December.
Under the new tax structure, passengers on domestic and intra-Europe flights now pay €7.40 per ticket in economy, up from €2.63, while those in business class face an increase from €20.27 to €30.
For mid-haul flights covering distances under 5,500 kilometres, the economy and premium economy tax has doubled from €7.51 to €15, while business and first-class passengers now pay €80 per ticket, up from €63.07.
Long-haul flights exceeding 5,500 kilometres have seen the most significant increase, with the economy and premium economy tax rising from €7.51 to €40. Meanwhile, business and first-class travelers now pay €120, up from €63.07.
The French government has justified these tax increases as part of its commitment to environmental sustainability and the promotion of cleaner aviation technologies. The revenue generated will be used to support climate initiatives and encourage the use of Sustainable Aviation Fuels (SAF). To incentivise the transition, a 50% tax credit is available for companies utilising SAF, with a cap of €35 million per year.
 now incur a tax of €15 for economy and premium economy, up from €7.51, while business and first-class passengers face an increase from €63.07 to €80. For Long-haul, the tax has surged from €7.51 to €40 in economy and premium economy, and from €63.07 to €120 in business and first class.){kind=link}