Cheaper travel advocated by CDU for reduced fares
Anja Karliczek, the Chairwoman of the Tourism Committee in the German Bundestag and a representative of the Christian Democratic Union (CDU) party, has called for changes aimed at making air travel cheaper for passengers in Germany. In an interview with the Rheinische Post, Karliczek expressed her concerns about the current air traffic tax as a factor affecting the cost of air travel in the country.
Karliczek is particularly concerned about the high fees and taxes at German airports, which she believes pose a threat to the competitiveness of these airports. According to her, German airports charge four to five times higher fees than airports in Spain and Turkey. This, she argues, could drive airlines away from Germany and impact the country's economic location.
The coalition, as per Karliczek's statements, aims to reduce air traffic-specific taxes, fees, and charges. These proposed changes could prevent airlines from leaving Germany and help improve international connections for the country. Karliczek continues to advocate for these changes, focusing on the needs of both tourists and non-tourists, as well as business and trade fairs.
One proposed approach to lower flight costs is introducing a tax on domestic flights and the domestic portions of international flights to replace the current lack of kerosene tax. This could generate significant revenue and potentially subsidize cheaper alternatives like the Deutschlandticket for trains. Other related fiscal measures include reconsidering tax privileges on company cars and removing the exemption of VAT on flight tickets for domestic flights.
However, it's worth noting that the German federal government has not yet implemented these direct measures. Karliczek has proposed reversing the increase in air traffic tax scheduled for May 2024 and rethinking the fee structure at German airports. She has criticised the high fees at German airports compared to other countries.
Despite her role as the Chairwoman of the Tourism Committee, Karliczek acknowledges the importance of connections for business and trade fairs. She emphasises that these steps are necessary for better connections for business travelers and the trade fair location in Germany.
In conclusion, Anja Karliczek's efforts are aimed at making air travel more affordable for passengers in Germany, while also ensuring the country maintains its competitive edge in the aviation industry.
