France is giving its approval to ban short-haul domestic flights for cities linked with under 2.5 hours of train travel. Here’s more on the new regulation.
Short-haul domestic flights are banned in France
The European Commission has approved France’s decision for abolishing domestic flights between places liked by under 2.5 hours of train journey. The decision was announced on Friday as a part of the nation’s 2021 climate law. When first revealed, the measures were contested by the European branch of the Airports Council International (ACI Europe) and the Union of French Airports (UAF).
A European Air Services Regulation article states that a member state may, “where there are serious environmental problems […] limit or refuse the exercise of traffic rights, in particular where other modes of transport provide a satisfactory service”. The ban is valid for three years, following which the commission will reassess and address the issue.
More on the green initiative
Additionally, France is cracking down on the excessive use of private jets for short flights. With this, it is aiming to make transport more green and fair for the population. Clément Beaune, the French transport minister stated the nation will not continue tolerating the rich using private planes with the general public making cutbacks to deal with climate change and the energy crisis. “This is a major step forward in the policy of reducing greenhouse gas emissions. I am proud that France is a pioneer in this area,” stated Beaune.
The law will be in place “as quickly as possible” after public consultation and review by the Council of state. Sarah Fayole revealed the European Commission’s decision has both “negative and positive aspects”. This is because the move is only affecting three domestic flight routes. “It’s going in the right direction, but the initial measure is (not very) ambitious. We must go even further,” she added.