Rafael Schvartzman: High European airport charges are hurting airlines

Airport charges remain one of the most serious challenges facing the European aviation industry, Rafael Schvartzman, Regional Vice President for Europe at the International Air Transport Association (IATA), said during a press conference held as part of IATA's 82nd Annual General Meeting (AGM) and World Air Transport Summit (WATS), According to Report's correspondent in Rio de Janeiro.

Schvartzman said rising aviation fuel prices have increased pressure on airlines, forcing them to pay even closer attention to all other cost components.

"Airport charges remain a serious problem. Some airports are still trying to recover losses incurred during the pandemic by raising fees. However, such decisions now directly harm the competitiveness of European aviation," he said.

He noted that the challenges facing the sector are particularly evident at Heathrow Airport, Amsterdam Airport Schiphol, and within Spain"s airport network.

Regarding Heathrow, Schvartzman argued that the current regulatory model does not adequately serve either passengers or the broader economy.

"Over the next five years, charges will remain roughly at their current level, but they are already among the highest in the world. If the airport expansion project goes ahead, additional costs will be added to an already excessively high tariff base. This is why broader reform is necessary."

He also commented on IATA"s challenge to the tariff proposal of Aena, Spain"s airport operator.

"We have seen a number of constructive changes from the regulator, including revisions to passenger traffic and revenue forecasts. The immediate impact remains limited, but it reflects a more realistic approach in the long term."

On Schiphol Airport, Schvartzman welcomed a temporary reduction in charges but said it should be viewed in context.

"A temporary 10% discount on airport charges is a positive step and demonstrates a degree of flexibility toward airlines. However, it must be considered against the backdrop of the 33% increase in charges approved last year. As a result, airport fees have effectively doubled compared with 2019 levels," the IATA vice president emphasized.