Ryanair is leaving several airports in France in the summer of 2026
According to the trade press, Ryanair has confirmed it will withdraw from several regional French airports starting in the summer of 2026. The low-cost carrier cites airline taxation, particularly the TSBA (Tax on Airport Businesses), which it considers too high to maintain certain routes. For tourism professionals, this announcement raises immediate concerns about accessibility and the competitiveness of these regions.
Summary
Ryanair targets French taxation
In an interview published by Challenges, Ryanair's Chief Commercial Officer, Jason McGuinness, stated: "When you increase taxes by 180%, it makes some airports unviable for us." He asserted that the TSBA increase directly impacts the airline's scheduling decisions.
By winter 2025, Ryanair had already reduced its capacity in France, eliminated routes and left several regional hubs such as Strasbourg, Brive, Bergerac or Vatry, according to the specialized press.
A political message or a deliberate strategy
Ryanair CEO Michael O'Leary confirmed that the airline would prioritize countries with stable tax regimes in its capacity allocation decisions. He indicated that reallocations could be accelerated if conditions in France do not improve.
On the government side, the position is firmer. In an interview reported by Le Parisien, Transport Minister Philippe Tabarot stated: "Dialogue, yes, but no threats." He emphasized that the company has "doubled its profits" but continues to use a "very aggressive" tone.
Profits up despite capacity reduction
According to the company's public statements, Ryanair is recording a notable increase in its traffic and results in 2025. This growth does not prevent it from reducing its exposure in countries where taxation is increasing, such as France, Germany or Austria.
What are the impacts for tourism professionals?
- Fewer seats mean a reduced influx of visitors for hotels, restaurants and local activities.
- The territories most dependent on low-cost services are losing attractiveness, especially outside of peak season.
- The airports in question risk significant financial losses, with an impact on local employment.
- Agencies and tour operators must anticipate program adjustments and identify alternative transportation options.
The TSBA at the heart of the criticism
The government has stated that the TSBA (Tax on Aeronautical Services) is not set to increase in 2026. However, several stakeholders are pointing to a significant impact from the current tax system. The EBAA (European Boat Owners Association), cited by the trade press, reports a decline in activity of over 20% for French operators in the third quarter, while foreign operators are seeing growth. The FNAM (National Federation of Aeronautical Industries) also speaks of a "competitive disadvantage" for the French flag carrier.
What to anticipate
- Identify the airports most exposed to a potential withdrawal of Ryanair.
- Working on alternative service options: rail, hubs, agreements with other companies.
- Strengthen local lobbying efforts to maintain strategic positions.
- Adapt marketing plans to population areas that remain well-connected.
- Staying agile: service maps are evolving rapidly.
Updates
November 17, 2025: article published following the interview with Ryanair by Challenges and government reactions.
