Increased Departure Tax for Private Flights from France: What You Need to Know

As of 1 March 2025, private flights departing from France will experience higher rates of Departure Tax.

The new Departure Tax will charge different rates per passenger, based on the aircraft type and the destination. This change affects all charterers departing from France, whether booking a bespoke private flight or opting for an empty leg offer.

What Extra Costs Can I Expect from the Departure Tax?

As a private jet charterer, you will be subject to the rates for 'Business Aircraft with Jet Engine' or 'Business Aircraft with Turboprop.' The Departure Tax applies to all flights, including commercial aircraft, but at a lower rate than what private chartered business aircrafts will incur.

Departure Tax Rates by Destination

Here’s a clear breakdown of the tax rates applicable to various destinations:

Destination	Turboprop Tax Rate	Jet Engine Tax Rate
Within Europe	€210 per passenger	€420 per passenger
To 5,500 km outside of Europe	€675 per passenger	€1,015 per passenger
Greater than 5,500 km	€1,025 per passenger	€2,100 per passenger

VAT at 10% will also apply to flights within France. For instance, flying from Paris Le Bourget to Nice Côte D'Azur will incur this additional tax. This means you’ll face double taxation, as VAT is calculated on top of the Departure Tax.

How Do I Pay the Departure Tax?

Your charter offer will include all applicable taxes and fees. The operator will collect and remit the tax on your behalf, simplifying the process for you.

What Does This Mean for My Charter?

In summary, charters departing from France will be more expensive due to the new tax. For example, on long-haul flights like Paris to New York, each passenger will face the highest tariff of €2,100. If there are ten passengers onboard, the charter cost increases by €21,000.

Even for frequent empty leg charterers, the full tax applies, regardless of any discounts. This change makes empty legs from France less attractive than before.

For short-haul flights within Europe for small groups of 1-4 passengers, the Departure Tax may go unnoticed. It will be charged at the lowest banding, while the overall charter cost remains in the thousands of Euros.

Potential Impact on the Charter Market

The new Departure Tax could substantially affect the aviation industry in France. Operators will face increased costs that may lead to fewer departures. Some charterers may consider alternative departure airports in neighboring countries.

This situation might also increase competition in those airports, as charterers look for more cost-effective solutions. Keeping a close eye on the industry trends will be crucial for both charterers and operators.

How Can Lux Jets Help?

Lux Jets is ready to help you navigate these changes with transparent pricing. If you have alternative airport options outside of France, we can explore those for you.

We are also mindful of the challenges our partners face in France. Operators who depend on internal departures will bear the brunt of the Departure Tax. As a result, we anticipate a decline in departures from France.

Lux Jets aims to support both charterers and operators during this transition. We also remain proactive in advocating for a reconsideration of the Departure Tax, to alleviate its impact on the industry.

For inquiries regarding the Departure Tax related to your upcoming flights, connect with your Lux Jets broker. You can also reach out to us via email at info@lux-jets.com.