Ryanair to cut FIVE aircraft from Charleroi base

Ryanair will cut five aircraft from its Charleroi base after Belgium raised aviation departure tax, shifting capacity away from higher-cost markets. The carrier said the Belgian government’s decision to increase the departure tax from €5 to €7 per passenger will take effect from 1 January 2027. Ryanair will permanently withdraw five aircraft from the Brussels Charleroi operation and remove two aircraft seats for the Winter 2026/2027 and Summer 2027 seasons. The airline noted it currently has nine Boeing 737-800s based at Charleroi and that it controls more than 80% of passenger traffic there. CEO Eddie Wilson criticized the government led by Prime Minister Bart De Wever, calling the cumulative 250% tax increase “absurd” and counterproductive. Local officials expressed regret, and Ryanair warned that around 20 routes could be suspended.