BERLIN (dpa-AFX) - Following in the footsteps of companies, employees in the aviation industry are now also taking a stand against the planned increase in the German ticket tax. The measure planned as part of the budget consolidation would endanger jobs and lead to additional climate burdens, criticized works councils and the trade union Verdi. "The existence of smaller airports in particular could be jeopardized", according to a letter to the leaders of the governing parties published on Friday.

The additional costs for each ticket weakened German air traffic, especially compared to subsidized airlines from the Arab world and Turkey. Instead of Frankfurt and Munich, Asian flights are increasingly being handled via hubs in Doha, Dubai or Istanbul. This would also lead to higher CO2 emissions overall. Instead of the tax, it would be better to levy a climate levy for each ticket, said Verdi Vice Chairwoman Christine Behle. This revenue could then be earmarked for climate protection investments in the industry.

The ticket tax introduced in 2011 generated almost 1.2 billion euros for the state in 2022. Depending on the final destination of the flight, between 12.48 euros and 56.91 euros per ticket are due, which providers generally pass on to passengers. The German government now wants to generate additional revenue from the tax in an amount that offsets the waiver of the initially planned national kerosene tax. From May 1, the rates are to be between 15.53 and 70.83 euros./ceb/DP/mis