Fly more, pay more

As global air traffic surges to record highs, European environmental groups and economists are pushing for a bold new measure to tackle aviation’s climate impact: a tiered flight tax based on individual flight frequency. Under the proposal, travelers would be allowed up to two round-trip flights per year tax-free — but those taking nine or more annual trips would face a hefty €400 levy.

The idea is rooted in the polluter pays principle, a concept gaining traction across climate policy discussions. According to environmental advocates, the world’s top 1% of earners are responsible for nearly half of the emissions driving climate change — and frequent flying plays a disproportionate role in that imbalance.

Aviation remains the most polluting mode of transportation per passenger. In 2018 alone, domestic flights within the EU-27 emitted 15 megatons of CO₂ equivalent, while international flights originating from the bloc produced over nine times that amount. Worse, aviation’s climate footprint is still growing — unchecked by the kinds of fuel taxes imposed on motorists.

Wopke Hoekstra, a former candidate for the EU’s top climate envoy role, famously pointed out the absurdity of the status quo: “When I fill up my car, 50-60% of what I pay is tax. But when an aircraft refuels, it pays zero. What European thinks that makes sense?”

The proposed tax would introduce financial disincentives for excessive air travel, while preserving access for those with reasonable needs, such as visiting distant relatives. Activists argue that this type of reform is long overdue, given that most current aviation levies are too weak to meaningfully alter industry behavior or consumer habits.

Meanwhile, airports like Budapest Airport are reporting relentless passenger growth, serving an average of 40,000 daily travelers in 2022 — double its previous numbers — without a comprehensive long-term sustainability plan in place. The airport’s management has publicly stated ambitions to become Eastern and Central Europe’s top air freight hub, further intensifying concerns about future emissions.

Aviation emissions are notoriously difficult to decarbonize, and without systemic policy shifts, experts warn that the sector’s growth could undermine national and EU-wide climate goals. Environmental leaders emphasize the need for integrated, long-term solutions that align economic, social, and environmental priorities — and a tiered flight tax could be one of the first serious steps in that direction.