Published on
December 13, 2025
In a significant move that has shaken the European travel industry, Ryanair has announced a substantial reduction in its Brussels flight operations. This decision, which affects the airline’s winter 2026/27 schedule, is a direct result of Belgium’s controversial increase in aviation taxes. Ryanair, one of Europe’s largest low-cost carriers, revealed plans to cut 1 million seats and 20 routes from Brussels. The airline’s reaction to the rising costs is a clear indication of how national policies on aviation taxes are influencing major airlines and disrupting travel plans across Europe.
The aviation tax increase, particularly a €10 departure fee and an additional €3 tax at Brussels Charleroi Airport, is expected to have far-reaching implications for travelers. Ryanair has been vocal about its concerns, stating that the hikes have made the market “grossly uncompetitive” and are forcing airlines like Ryanair to rethink their operations. As a result, the airline will be withdrawing five aircraft from Brussels, significantly impacting both local passengers and international travelers.
The Impact of Belgium’s Rising Aviation Taxes on Ryanair’s Operations
Belgium’s move to raise aviation taxes is part of a broader trend in Europe, where governments are increasingly targeting the aviation sector to generate revenue. The Belgian government has justified the tax hikes as necessary to fund infrastructure improvements and promote environmental sustainability. However, this decision has drawn criticism from airlines like Ryanair, who argue that the taxes undermine the affordability of air travel and hurt both passengers and airlines.
Ryanair’s decision to reduce its operations in Brussels has sparked concerns for both local commuters and tourists who rely on low-cost travel options to explore Europe. Brussels Charleroi Airport, a key hub for Ryanair, will see a noticeable decline in available flights. Ryanair has also indicated that the cuts could extend further if Belgium continues to increase aviation taxes in the future.
For travelers, this news means fewer affordable flights from one of Europe’s most prominent low-cost airlines. Ryanair’s Brussels cuts are likely to lead to higher prices for existing flights as demand for remaining routes increases. Passengers who have already booked tickets from Brussels may also experience cancellations or disruptions.
Why Are Ryanair’s Capacity Cuts So Significant?
Ryanair’s reductions in Brussels are part of a wider reshaping of its network across Europe. The airline has previously scaled back operations in other European cities due to similar issues with rising costs and regulatory changes. For example, Ryanair recently reduced its capacity in France, cutting 750,000 seats due to taxes and high operating expenses.
However, the Brussels cuts are particularly noteworthy because of the city’s strategic importance for Ryanair’s operations. Brussels Charleroi Airport, located just south of the Belgian capital, has long served as a major base for the airline. The airport has been instrumental in facilitating Ryanair’s low-cost operations in the region, offering travelers a more affordable gateway to Europe.
The loss of 1 million seats and 20 routes means significant disruption not only for passengers but also for the local economy. Ryanair’s presence in Brussels has long been a driver of tourism and business travel, and the airline’s downsizing could lead to a decrease in visitor arrivals to Belgium.
Government Reactions to the Hike in Aviation Taxes
The Belgian government has defended its decision to increase aviation taxes, emphasizing the need to invest in infrastructure and reduce the environmental impact of the aviation industry. However, critics argue that these increases disproportionately affect low-cost carriers and budget-conscious travelers.
In response to Ryanair’s cuts, the Belgian Ministry of Finance has stated that the increased taxes are part of a broader plan to make aviation more environmentally sustainable and to fund necessary improvements to the country’s airport infrastructure. This includes upgrades to Brussels Airport and the expansion of public transportation links to the airport, which officials say will benefit travelers in the long run.
However, Ryanair’s stance suggests that these benefits will come at a steep price for affordable travel. The airline has expressed its willingness to divert more of its resources to other European cities where the financial environment is more favorable. The airline’s management has also indicated that it may increase its presence in other markets, such as Spain, Italy, and Germany, where operating conditions are less burdensome.
What Does This Mean for Travelers in Brussels?
For passengers flying to or from Brussels in the coming years, this is a wake-up call. Travelers can expect to face higher ticket prices and fewer options for direct flights from the city. Ryanair’s reduced operations will likely result in fewer affordable options for both business travelers and tourists seeking low-cost flights to European destinations.
Passengers who are planning to travel to Brussels may also want to keep an eye on future changes to their flight schedules. With fewer Ryanair routes available, travelers may need to explore other airlines or opt for alternative airports in nearby cities, such as Paris or Amsterdam, to find more affordable flights.
Will Other Airlines Follow Ryanair’s Lead?
Ryanair’s decision to reduce its capacity in Brussels may set a precedent for other low-cost carriers operating in Europe. If other airlines face similar tax increases or rising operating costs, they could be forced to make similar reductions in service. This could lead to further consolidation within the European aviation industry, as smaller airlines struggle to compete with the financial burden of high taxes.
It is also possible that Ryanair’s cuts in Brussels could prompt Belgium’s tourism sector to rethink its strategy. The country’s reliance on low-cost airlines to drive visitor numbers may be at risk, and officials may need to reconsider how to balance revenue generation with maintaining accessibility for international tourists.
Conclusion: A Wake-Up Call for European Aviation
Ryanair’s decision to cut flights and routes in Brussels highlights the challenges that European low-cost carriers face in the current regulatory environment. Ryanair’s Brussels cuts are a reminder of how national tax policies can shape the future of air travel in Europe and beyond. For travelers, this means fewer affordable options and more uncertainty when booking flights.
The impact of these cuts will be felt most keenly in Brussels, where tourism and business travel are heavily reliant on low-cost flights. As the Belgian government moves forward with its plans to increase aviation taxes, it remains to be seen how other airlines will respond and whether travelers will bear the brunt of the increased costs. For now, Ryanair’s move serves as a stark reminder that affordable travel is increasingly under pressure from rising costs and regulatory challenges.
