Simon Calder's Independent Travel Podcast Should premium passengers pay a £500 climate levy?
Nov 12, 2025
In this engaging discussion, Thomas Reynaert, Senior Vice President for External Affairs at IATA, shares insights on the proposed premium passenger tax at COP30. He argues that taxing business and first-class travelers is counterproductive and advocates for the existing Corsia framework as a more effective solution for reducing aviation emissions. Reynaert also highlights concerns about increased UK air passenger duties, warning that they could negatively impact connectivity and drive airlines to change their routes, ultimately harming the UK economy.
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Corsia Over Surcharges
- IATA argues a per-passenger surcharge is counterproductive and won't cut emissions effectively.
- Thomas Reynaert says Corsia, not more taxes, is the proper instrument to reduce aviation emissions.
Do Impact Assessments For Passenger Rights
- Assess unintended consequences before reforming EU261 passenger rights to avoid higher ticket prices.
- Thomas Reynaert urges governments to carry out robust impact assessments to protect connectivity and affordability.
Taxes Can Harm Connectivity
- Heavy regulation and ticket taxes can make flying more expensive and reduce connectivity.
- Reynaert links higher costs to negative effects on affordable flying and route decisions by airlines.