3-Sep-2010 12:32 PM
Ryanair may close some German routes over new departure tax
Ryanair stated it may close some of its routes in Germany due to the new departure tax being introduced by the German Government. Spokesman Stephen McNamara said: "We will have to review all of our routes, and it is likely that these taxes will lead to a decline in passenger numbers" (DPA, 02-Sep-2010). Ryanair operates 174 routes from its three German hubs in Frankfurt, Dusseldorf and Bremen, handling approximately 11 million passengers to/from Germany p/a. The LCC has appealed the decision to the German Parliament, with the carrier intending to lobby for change through the European Low Fares Airline Association.