Iata has hit out at the French government for allowing Paris airports to continue hiking airport charges for each year over the 2016-2020 period.
The aviation trade body critcised the French administration for ignoring the recommendation of an independent Airport Consultative Commission.
Iata had warned in consultation over the fees that a yearly decrease in airport charges at Charles de Gaulle and Orly would improve the attractiveness of France’s major hubs and this would serve the interests of all involved.
The commission concluded that the public interest would be best served by using terminal retail activities of Aéroports de Paris (ADP) to implement annual decreases in charges to airlines over the four years.
Iata director general and chief executive, Tony Tyler (pictured), said: “Connectivity is critical to modern economies. France is no exception. And making it more expensive at a time when improving competitiveness is a fundamental concern just does not add up.
“With this decision air travellers will have to reach deeper into their wallets to travel to, from and within France.
“In parallel, every business that in any way relies on global markets takes a hit as well. I urge the government to reconsider.”
He added: “With a sound development plan and the reintegration of the income from retail activities at the airports, user charges could be substantially decreasing every year.
“France’s airport infrastructure is a national asset that should be nurtured for the broad economic benefits that it catalyses.
“It is deeply disappointing that the government chose to ignore this golden opportunity for a winning solution in favor of a decision that will make travel more expensive for French business and tourism.”