Call for 'jet set’ tax on Europe’s frequent flyers could raise billions

The tax is designed to raise cash that could be ploughed into alternative and less polluting forms of travel from European destinations.

If adopted, the Foundation estimates the new charge could increase aviation tax revenues by €64bn a year, with minimal impact on occasional flyers.

The NEF claims their plans will target those who take multiple flights a year, while largely exempting those who only occasionally travel by air.

The levy would be applied based on the number of return flights a person takes annually, with the first return flight exempt from the charge.

Those taking medium and long-haul flights, or travelling in business and first class will be hardest hit, as they’ll face an additional surcharge.

The Foundation estimates that more than half of the financial and environmental benefits of their plan will come from the 5% of people who fly the most. The vast majority, around 72% of air travellers, would escape fees by flying once or not at all.

NEF analysts believe the cash that would be raised from the tax could be crucial to support global efforts to meet climate targets. They argue that a slice of the funds raised should be set aside to support those nations already struggling with the financial and environmental impact of climate change.

Sebastian Mang, senior researcher at the New Economics Foundation (NEF), said: “When it comes to stopping climate breakdown, Europe faces a huge gap in the finance available.

“A frequent flying levy could make a sizeable contribution to the EU’s funds and could be leveraged to generate hundreds of billions in capital for investment in public transport, wind and solar power, and nature restoration.

“At the same time, a portion of the funds should be ring-fenced for the EU’s