Ryanair on Tuesday, 9 December 2025, announced a sharp reduction of its operations at Brussels Charleroi Airport, Belgium’s second largest air hub and long considered one of the low-cost carrier’s key bases in Europe. According to the company’s statement, the cuts include a reduction of one million seats, the removal of five aircraft stationed at the airport, and the cancellation of 20 routes from the airline’s winter schedule for 2026-2027.

The airline attributes the decision to the Belgian government’s plan to double the aviation tax beginning in 2027, raising it to 10 euros per departing passenger. Ryanair also cites a proposal by the Charleroi city council to introduce an additional 3-euro tax per passenger starting next year. Together, these measures significantly increase the cost structure for airlines operating from the airport, prompting Ryanair to scale back its presence.

In parallel with the announcement, the carrier sent a letter to Belgian prime minister Bart De Wever and several other officials urging them to cancel the planned tax increases. Ryanair warned that further reductions will follow in 2026 if the government does not reconsider. The airline argues that rising taxes undermine the competitiveness of Brussels Charleroi and threaten the affordability of air travel for passengers.

The decision comes against the backdrop of a broader pattern of route cuts across Ryanair’s network. In late November 2025, the carrier announced the cancellation of all flights to the Portuguese Azores. Earlier this year, it reduced operations to Spain and limited its presence in Austria, Germany, and France. In each case, Ryanair criticised local authorities and airports for what it considers excessive taxes and fees.

With its latest move in Belgium, the airline reinforces its position that escalating local charges are incompatible with low-cost business models. The coming year will show whether negotiations with authorities can prevent deeper reductions at one of Ryanair’s most important European bases.