Belgium’s taking a different strategy than some of its neighbors to discourage short-haul flying where a train would be a better choice. Unlike France, for instance, which is canceling routes, Belgium is hitting them with a penalty.
Starting April 1st, the country is instituting a ‘boarding tax,’ charged to all departing passengers, with the amount keyed to the type of flight. Flights within Europe but greater than 500km will cost €2 per person, and flights outside Europe and UK will cost €4. But on flights of less than 500km, the fee takes a steep jump to €10 per passenger.
Germany has also taken the ‘raise the tax’ route, although it is also considering further restrictions. Austria has already started cutting some flight routes and Spain and Scandinavia are considering similar actions where fast trains are available.
