Brussels, 21 July 2025 – BT4Europe, the European Network of Business Travel Associations, has issued a strong response to the European Commission-backed proposal to introduce a surcharge on first- and business-class air travel. The measure, intended to fund international climate action, risks misrepresenting the nature of business travel and undermining Europe's economic competitiveness.
While only around 10% of business travellers fly in premium cabins, the policy's framing equates business travel with luxury—a misleading narrative that fails to recognise the essential, purpose-driven nature of corporate travel.
“Business travel is not excess — it is essential. It connects economies, drives innovation, and supports European growth,” said Odete Pimenta da Silva at BT4Europe.
BT4Europe fully supports ambitious climate action but warns that simplistic fiscal approaches may cause more harm than good if not carefully designed.
BT4Europe cautions that the proposed surcharge:
• Fails to differentiate between essential business travel and discretionary leisure travel;
• Does not guarantee reinvestment into sustainable aviation solutions like SAF and fleet modernisation;
• Reinforces misconceptions of business travel as elitist or non-essential.
• Disproportionately impacts European-based airlines and companies with strict travel policies.
• Risks undermining the competitiveness of the Single Market and European aviation hubs.
Instead, BT4Europe calls for a smart, data-driven climate policy that aligns environmental objectives with fair taxation, targeted investment, and a level playing field across the industry.
“Europe needs climate measures that are effective, equitable, and economically sound. Business travel should be part of the solution—not unfairly penalised by one-size-fits-all taxes,” Odete Pimenta da Silva added.
BT4Europe urges EU policymakers to engage with the business travel community and design policies that support sustainability and the strategic needs of the European economy.
Click here for the latest Business Travel Opinion on the Premium Flyer Tax Proposal
About BT4Europe
BT4Europe is the European Network of Business Travel Associations, representing national business travel bodies from across the continent. We advocate for policy solutions that support safe, efficient, and sustainable business travel in a unified Europe.
Media Contact:
Mark Watts
+32474060185
markwatts@lpbrussels.com
www.bt4europe.com
