In a announcement that could impact holiday travel plans for thousands, Scandinavian Airlines (SAS) has hinted at the potential cancellation of routes to popular Christmas weekend destinations.
CEO, Anniken Håbjørg, expressed serious concerns over rising operational costs driven by increases in Norway.
Speaking to the Norwegian newspaper , Håbjørg said: "The limit has been reached. Further tax increases could result in fewer flights and a reduced range of destinations for travelers."
The Norwegian government recently unveiled plans to increase airport taxes over the next five years to stabilise Avinor, the state-owned airport operator, which has been struggling financially due to decreased air traffic in recent years.
These proposed hikes in taxes have raised alarms within the aviation sector, as they could force airlines, including SAS, to rethink their service offerings.
Håbjørg added: "Additional fiscal burdens will not only affect SAS but other airlines as well, leading to potential route reductions."
Comparatively, neighboring Sweden has recently cut airport taxes, a move that Håbjørg believes places Norwegian airlines at a competitive disadvantage.
He urged the Norwegian government to reconsider its taxation strategy.
He claimed that the aviation industry already contributes significantly to infrastructure costs and environmental efforts.
"We think that Avinor should also look at their own costs and what they can do to reduce these, as the entire industry is doing," Håbjørg said.
This situation comes as airlines around the world are still grappling with the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic, which has dramatically altered travel patterns and diminished passenger volumes.
The potential loss of routes to cherished holiday destinations could affect many travelers planning Christmas getaways, leading to concerns about reduced flight availability during a peak travel season.
You may also like
Don't Make These 5 Mistakes on Sharad Purnima, Even by Accident
What is Digital Dementia?
Get a chance to get a government job in IGCAR today
Is there another new world under the sea?
This actress used to shoot prank videos with people on the streets
No one was sick but Delta cancels meal services on 200 flights over 'safety issue'
Huge new Hollywood blockbuster 'set to lose $200 million' after box office catastrophe
Al Pacino's wild love life from steamy on set affair to 'oldest dad on record'
Rajasthan bypolls: Over one crore voters to decide fate of seven candidates
Godrej Magic HandwashReinforces the Power of Hand Hygiene for a Cleaner, Healthier World on Global-Handwashing-day
Simon Jordan sums up Ryder Cup ticket prices and has message to Team USA's players
Sofia Richie feared for her and her unborn baby's life during 'terrifying' pregnancy ordeal
Meghan Markle's friend reveals real reason she didn't attend engagements with Harry
'My son was dripping in blood with finger hanging off when our washing machine exploded'
"Don't understand reason behind such arrangement": Shiv Sena (UBT)'s Arvind Sawant on Maharashtra poll schedule
Inviting outside forces dents efforts for unity: Rajnath tells neighbours on maritime security
'I visited Tom Kerridge's Michelin-starred pub and was stunned by £8 menu item'
Greg James hits out at Channel 4 for 'rushing' his axed TV show as it rivalled the Traitors
Harry Kane immediate Thomas Tuchel England manager verdict speaks volumes after FA talks
"People don't want Mahayuti, looking for new govt led by Maha Vikas Aghadi": NCP-SCP leader Clyde Crasto