After the anger of the airlines, the government faces the anger of the employees. The National Union of Line Pilots (SNPL), largely the majority in the profession, has presented a strike notice for November 14th.
Calls on all pilots to leave their jobs to protest against the increase in the solidarity tax on airline tickets (TSBA), called the “Chirac tax”. “No consultation of industry stakeholders has taken place, nor has an impact study been carried out to analyze the economic and social consequences of this measure! » we get carried away at SNPL.
In the 2025 finance law, an amendment provides for doubling the revenue deriving from this tax. From around 460 million per year today, the government wants to recover 1 billion euros in 2025. As soon as the announcement was made, airlines warned that they would pass this additional cost entirely onto the price of tickets. Air France, Air Caraibes and French Bee have already applied it. According to Air France data, the scale ranges from 2.63 euros to 9.50 euros for economy class tickets and from 20.27 euros to 30 euros for business class tickets on domestic and European flights.
A warning to the government
According to SNPL, these additional costs, shouldered by travellers, will ultimately lead to “tens of thousands of job losses in France”. The union estimates that demand will freeze and that the revenues of companies, which are “barely recovering” from the devastating effects of the Covid 19 crisis, will collapse.
“This social disaster will go hand in hand with the weakening of French operators or operators regularly operating in France compared to their European and international competitors, with the additional real risk of a reduction in the economic and tourist attractiveness of our country. ”, we insist to SNPL.
This strike notice therefore sounds like a warning to the government, invited to revise its copy or risk seeing a harsher movement emerge in the future. The Ministry of Transport prefers to delay and minimize the consequences of the notification filed.
Interview between Time.news Editor (E) and Aviation Expert (A)
E: Welcome to Time.news! We have with us today an expert in aviation economics, Dr. Claire Dubois. Dr. Dubois, thank you for joining us. The recent announcement regarding the increase in the solidarity tax on airline tickets has stirred quite a controversy, particularly among airline employees and pilots. Can you shed some light on how this tax is impacting the aviation sector?
A: Thank you for having me! The proposed increase in the solidarity tax, commonly referred to as the “Chirac tax,” is indeed creating significant unrest within the airline industry. The National Union of Line Pilots (SNPL) has raised valid concerns about the lack of consultation and impact studies regarding this measure.
E: Absolutely! The SNPL has called for a strike on November 14th in response. Why do you think the pilots are so adamant about protesting this particular tax?
A: Pilots are primarily concerned about the financial burden that this tax will impose on their industry. Doubling the tax revenue target from €460 million to €1 billion is a hefty increase that airlines have indicated they will likely pass on to consumers through higher ticket prices. This not only affects the airlines’ profitability but can also lead to job insecurity within the sector.
E: It’s a classic case of costs trickling down to employees and passengers alike. The government claims that the revenue from this tax will be used for social contributions. Do you think the pilots see any merit in that argument?
A: There’s certainly a debate to be had. While the government may argue that the additional funds will support social initiatives, the immediate concern for pilots and airline employees is survival in an already challenging economic climate. They are rightfully questioning whether the benefits will outweigh the financial strain imposed on both the airlines and their workforce.
E: Exactly! It seems like a precarious balancing act. How do you see this situation unfolding?
A: If the government does not engage in constructive dialogue with the industry stakeholders, the strike on November 14th could be just the beginning of a larger movement. Pilots may rally more support from other aviation employees, potentially leading to widespread disruptions. The government needs to act quickly to find a compromise that addresses the financial goals without jeopardizing the industry’s stability.
E: It does sound like a challenging road ahead. Given the stakes, what would your advice be to the government and airline leaders in navigating this turbulent situation?
A: Communication is key. The government should hold discussions with airline representatives and employees to listen to their concerns and consider their suggestions. Constructive engagement can lead to a more balanced policy, possibly implementing the tax in a way that considers the economic conditions of the industry while still addressing social needs.
E: Wise words, Dr. Dubois. It’s evident that the resolution of this issue will require careful planning and cooperation from all involved parties. Thank you for sharing your insights with us today.
A: Thank you! It’s been a pleasure discussing such an important topic. The aviation industry will definitely be one to watch in the coming months.
E: Indeed! We look forward to seeing how this situation evolves. Thank you for tuning in to Time.news.