After the Withdrawal of More Ryanair Aircraft: Hanke Against the Abolition of the Aviation Tax

Infrastructure Minister Hanke has rejected the abolition of the flight levy, as demanded by Ryanair and Vienna Airport. A complete removal is currently out of the question, the ministry explained. Hanke is open to discussions, but an evaluation of the tax is only possible in connection with the budgetary situation.

Talks on Flight Levy Without Agreement

To "ensure Austria's connection to international air traffic," Hanke is in "intensive exchange with aviation stakeholders," the ministry further stated. The decision "by airlines to start or end flight connections is to be recognized as the economic self-determination of the respective airline." Talks in September between industry representatives with Chancellor Christian Stocker (ÖVP) and Hanke ended without agreement. A growth plan presented by Ryanair to the government has so far remained uncommented. However, Stocker must now take action, demanded Ryanair CEO Michael O'Leary. "Otherwise, further cuts and higher flight prices for Austrian passengers and visitors are threatened," he increased the pressure. FPÖ General Secretary Christian Hafenecker accuses the government of "deliberate sabotage of the economic and tourism location." In a statement on Wednesday, he called for the "immediate and unconditional abolition of this location-hostile rip-off tax."

(APA/Red)

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