Ryanair has announced it will cease all flights to and from Aalborg Airport in Denmark starting at the end of March, a move that will eliminate 1.7 million seats and 32 flight routes for the summer season.

Additionally, the low-cost airline has confirmed the closure of its base at Billund Airport, where it currently stations two aircraft.

This decision follows what Ryanair describes as Denmark’s “short-sighted” introduction of an aviation tax of up to DKK 50 (€6.70;£5.60) per departing passenger, set to take effect in January 2025.

The airline claims the new tax, along with Billund Airport’s failure to reach a competitive long-term agreement, has made operations in the country unsustainable.

Ryanair’s exit will likely significantly affect Danish regional connectivity, as Billund serves as a key hub for travelers visiting Legoland and other attractions.

The airline currently operates direct flights from London Stansted to both Aalborg and Billund, with additional routes to Billund from Edinburgh and Manchester.

Denmark’s aviation tax is part of a broader effort to curb air travel emissions. Similar levies exist in other European nations, though some countries, such as Sweden, Italy, and Hungary, have recently moved to abolish them to stimulate air traffic recovery post-pandemic.

Aviation taxes are designed to encourage travelers to consider the environmental impact of flying and reduce unnecessary air travel. These fees are collected by airlines and passed on to passengers in ticket prices.

Ryanair, however, argues that such measures deter tourism, limit economic growth, and make Danish airports uncompetitive within Europe.

Environmental advocates believe the taxes should be even higher. Hannah Lawrence of Stay Grounded, a campaign network focused on reducing aviation’s environmental footprint, told Euronews: “Measures to stop the growth of air traffic are exactly what we need.

“We need effective policies across Europe that fairly reduce air traffic, such as a Frequent Flying Levy, which would target excessive flights taken by wealthier passengers and help cut emissions.”

Denmark’s aviation tax is shaping up to be a major test case for balancing economic interests with environmental responsibility, and act as a potential blueprint for other eco-minded countries.

There are fears that travellers relying on Ryanair for affordable flights to and from Denmark will soon have to look for alternative options.