Sweden invented flight shaming. Now it wants to axe the tax and lure airlines back

In a major policy shift, Sweden has officially scrapped its air travel tax from July 1, reversing a six-year-old levy that charged passengers up to 517 kronor (approximately $54) per flight. The decision is aimed at reviving the country’s commercial aviation sector, which has faced a sharp decline in traffic, particularly on domestic routes.

Introduced in 2018, the tax coincided with growing public support for climate activism, marked by the rise of Greta Thunberg and the "flight-shaming" movement. During that period, Swedes increasingly opted for train travel over flying. However, the long-term impact saw a significant drop in air traffic — down nearly one-third from 2018 levels, according to aviation data firm Cirium.

Smaller regional airports, such as Bromma near Stockholm, ceased operations due to falling demand. Ryanair withdrew entirely from Sweden’s domestic market last year, citing low profitability. Now, the airline has announced plans to reintroduce service, including two additional aircraft for its Swedish fleet and 10 new direct routes. It will simultaneously exit Denmark’s Aalborg and Billund airports, in protest of Denmark’s upcoming aviation tax.

Ryanair CEO Michael O’Leary said, “This sends a strong signal to Germany and other high-cost countries that if they want to grow tourism and connectivity, they need to reduce these taxes.”

Low-cost rival EasyJet responded similarly, stating, “We strongly welcome the abolition of taxes on passengers to help keep flying affordable and will keep our network under constant review for new opportunities.” Norwegian Air Shuttle also confirmed expansion plans in Sweden, including new routes and hiring more local pilots.

For travellers, this policy change is likely to lead to more flight options, especially on under-served routes. With increased competition from budget carriers and the removal of the tax, airfare on domestic and short-haul international routes could see a reduction, especially during off-peak travel months. Travel within Sweden — particularly to the North, where rail connectivity is limited — may become more accessible once again.

The move comes even as other European nations go in the opposite direction. Denmark plans to implement a similar air tax by year-end, and countries like France and Germany have restricted short-haul flights that can be replaced by train journeys.

The Swedish government’s shift indicates a recalibration of its climate priorities in favour of supporting regional connectivity and economic activity in aviation-dependent areas.