Netherlands to increase air traffic tax in 2027/ Photo: Shutterstock The Netherlands is getting ready to introduce the highest air passenger tax in the European Union next year, following policy decisions adopted by the previous government. By 2027, the average tax paid by passengers departing from Dutch airports is expected to exceed €40 per ticket, compared with an EU average of around €5.
The planned rise will place the Dutch levy at more than eight times the European benchmark, which is at odds with the current coalition agreement, which calls for a coordinated EU-wide framework for air passenger taxation across member states.
The new taxation model is expected to significantly increase travel costs as follows:
Families could look at a total tax burden reaching close to €290 (€72 per ticket) for group bookings.
As reported by KLM, research conducted by Markeffect in 2025 indicates a significant shift in travel behavior, with roughly 74% of respondents saying they would consider flying from foreign airports due to rising air passenger taxes.
KLM: "Over time, this trend may result in a reduction in demand for Dutch airports and a corresponding decline in available destinations, with broader implications for travelers, businesses, and the Dutch economy. KLM therefore maintains that the Dutch air passenger tax should be more closely aligned with neighboring countries."