Tag: Italy

As climate concerns intensify, several European countries are taking aim at private jet travel, a mode of transportation often criticized for its disproportionate environmental impact. Following France’s bold move in 2025 to introduce a steep departure tax on private jet passengers, other nations, including Spain, Italy, and members of a broader international coalition, are signaling similar intentions.

France Leads the Way

France implemented its private jet tax on March 1, 2025, with rates ranging from €210 to €2,100 per passenger, depending on aircraft type and flight distance. The tax is part of a broader climate finance initiative and includes a 10% VAT on domestic flights.

Spain and Coalition Countries Join In

Spain announced plans to introduce a similar aviation tax targeting both private jets and premium-class commercial flights. The details are expected later in 2025, but the intent is clear: raise funds for climate action and sustainable development.

Other countries in the coalition include:

• Kenya
• Barbados
• Benin
• Sierra Leone
• Somalia
• Antigua & Barbuda

These nations aim to direct the revenue toward climate resilience and support for vulnerable regions.

Italy’s Existing Luxury Tax

Italy has had a Luxury Tax on private jets since 2012. It charges:

• €10 for flights under 100 km
• €100 for flights between 100–1,500 km
• €200 for flights over 1,500 km

This tax applies per passenger per leg, making round trips significantly more expensive for jet users.

EU-Wide Emissions Reforms

Beyond national taxes, the European Commission is tightening aviation emissions rules:

• By 2026, airlines must fully purchase emissions allowances under the EU Emissions Trading System (EU ETS).
• Starting January 2025, operators must monitor and report non-CO₂ effects for flights within the European Economic Area.

These reforms aim to increase transparency and accountability in aviation emissions.

📊 Public Support vs. Industry Pushback

A 2025 global survey found:

• 75% of respondents support extra taxes on wealthy flyers (private jets, premium class).
• 81% support taxing fossil fuel companies for climate damages.

However, industry groups like the European Business Aviation Association (EBAA) warn of:

• Up to €120 billion in lost foreign investment
• Over 100,000 jobs at risk by 2030

Why Private Jets?

Private jets emit up to 14 times more CO₂ per passenger than commercial flights. They are often used for short-haul trips, making them a prime target for climate taxation.

With mounting pressure to reduce aviation emissions, private jet operators are now investing in sustainable aviation fuels (SAF), carbon offset programs, and innovative aircraft technologies to make flying private more eco-friendly.

RM