Dhaka, Sept. 24 -- The Netherlands is set to raise aviation taxes from January 1, 2026, in a move expected to generate nearly €250 million in short-term revenue and €1.1 billion annually in the long run.

Critics warn the changes will make the country the most expensive EU destination for air travel.

The proposed 2.9pc increase will see the standard Dutch air passenger tax rise from €29.40 to €30.25, according to the Royal Dutch Airline Traffic Association (ANVR).

While the government says the hike supports environmental protection and sustainable aviation, industry stakeholders and consumer advocates argue it will undermine climate efforts and make flying less accessible.

The bigger concern, critics say, is a t...