The introduction of the tax was part of the ‘mini-tax shift’, elaborated by Finance Minister Vincent Van Peteghem (CD&V). He wanted to help reduce the burden on labour. In advance, Van Peteghem had counted on the flight tax to yield 30 million euros this year. Next year that would be 40 million euros.
With 11.6 million euros in seven months, not even half of the budgeted amount has been received. However, a deferment of payment has been granted, says Francis Adyns, spokesman for the FPS Finance, so that “the amount does not cover all flights”. So the income can still increase.
There is therefore no reason for concern at Van Peteghem. Everything is going “as expected,” says his spokesperson.