France Introduces New Private Jet Tax
What This Means for Your Travel
As of March 1, 2025, France will implement a new Air Passenger Transport Tax on all private jet departures from French airports. This change, part of the country’s 2025 budget, will impact business jet charters, with tax rates varying by flight distance and aircraft type. At Canary Jet Charter, we understand the importance of staying informed and transparent with our clients. Below, we provide a comprehensive breakdown of the new tax regulations, how they will affect your travel, and what you need to know to plan your future flights from France.
New French Private Jet Tax Rates: What You Need to Know
The newly introduced departure tax will apply to all non-scheduled air services, including private jet charters, departing from French airports. The tax rates vary depending on the destination and aircraft type, which means the tax you incur could differ based on the flight’s length and the jet you are using.
Here’s a breakdown of the new tax rates:
- Flights within Europe (including the UK & Switzerland):
- Business Aircraft with Turboprop: €210 per passenger
- Business Aircraft with Jet Engine: €420 per passenger
- Intermediate International Flights (up to 5,500 km):
- Business Aircraft with Turboprop: €675 per passenger
- Business Aircraft with Jet Engine: €1,015 per passenger
- Long-Haul International Flights (beyond 5,500 km):
- Business Aircraft with Turboprop: €1,025 per passenger
- Business Aircraft with Jet Engine: €2,100 per passenger
Additionally, domestic flights within France will incur a 10% VAT surcharge, which will be added to the applicable tax. International flights, however, will not be subject to this VAT.
Understanding the Distance-Based Tax Calculation
One notable change under the new regulations is the way the taxable distance is calculated. Instead of determining the tax based on the actual departure airport, the taxable flight distance will now be standardized to Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport (LFPG).
For example, a flight from Lyon (LFLL) to New York (JFK) will be taxed as if it originated from Paris (LFPG), even though it is departing from Lyon. This simplified calculation aims to streamline tax assessments and reduce potential discrepancies between different departure points across France.
Legal Framework and Implementation
The new tax is introduced as part of Article L. 422-22 and Article L. 422-22-1 of the French Tax Code, which were formalized through Ordonnance n° 2021-1843 on December 22, 2021. This regulation applies solely to non-scheduled air services, which encompass private jet charters and other business aviation flights.
Key points to note:
- Implementation Date: The new tax rates will go into effect on March 1, 2025.
- Exemptions: No specific exemptions for business aviation have been announced.
- VAT: A 10% VAT will apply to domestic flights within France but will not be levied on international departures.
What Does This Mean for Canary Jet Charter Clients?
At Canary Jet Charter, we want to ensure that your travel plans are as seamless as possible. Here’s what you need to know about how the new tax will affect your flight:
- Tax Applicability: The tax applies to all passengers flying on a private jet departing from France, and the amount will depend on the aircraft type and destination.
- Automatic Inclusion in Pricing: The departure tax will be added directly to your flight cost. Our team will ensure that the tax is incorporated into your booking, so there are no surprises when it’s time to pay.
- Applies to Empty Leg Flights: The new tax will also be applied to empty leg flights departing from French airports.
Example: For a private jet flight from France to a European destination using a business jet with a jet engine, each passenger will incur a tax of €420 (excluding VAT). However, for a flight within France, the tax increases to €462 per passenger due to the 10% VAT.
Why Has France Introduced This Tax?
The French government has introduced this tax as part of its broader 2025 fiscal policy, with the goal of increasing tax revenue from the aviation sector, specifically private aviation. By implementing this new tax framework, France aims to contribute to public finance initiatives while also introducing levies on business aviation services.
The new tax is seen as part of France’s broader efforts to introduce new aviation-related levies and align with fiscal policies impacting private jet operations.
French Overseas Territories Exemption
It’s important to note that French overseas territories will not be impacted by the new tax rates. These regions will continue to follow the existing taxation system, introduced in 2021, where business jets are taxed at the same rate as airline business class seats (€20.27 per passenger).
Operator Responsibilities and Compliance
Private jet operators are responsible for self-declaring and remitting the tax on a monthly basis. In some cases, FBOs (Fixed Base Operators) or handlers may assist operators with tax compliance. At Canary Jet Charter, we ensure compliance with all regulations, so you can focus on enjoying a smooth, stress-free journey.
Conclusion
Starting March 1, 2025, all private jet charter departures from France will be subject to the new Air Passenger Transport Tax. At Canary Jet Charter, we are committed to ensuring a transparent and seamless booking experience. We will assist you with any questions you may have regarding the new tax and help you plan your trips efficiently.
If you’re planning a private jet charter from France in the coming months, reach out to our team for detailed information about how this tax will impact your booking. Our concierge service is here to help with planning and optimizing your travel experience under the new regulations.
Book your flight with Canary Jet Charter today and enjoy an effortless travel experience, knowing you are fully informed about the new tax regulations.
