France’s ban on domestic short-haul flights, introduced in June 2022 to combat carbon emissions, has been a subject of much debate. The regulation prohibits flights with rail alternatives under 2.5 hours, aiming to shift travelers towards more sustainable modes of transportation. Initial criticisms argued the ban was too narrow, targeting few routes and excluding connecting flights. The aviation industry also opposed the measure, claiming it was unfair.
Despite the controversy, the French Directorate General for Civil Aviation (DGAC) estimated that the ban could cut up to 55,000 tonnes of emissions annually. However, the Union of French Airports contested the law’s effectiveness, challenging it as an “abuse of power.” The Council of State upheld the ban, arguing it “is likely to contribute in the short term to the reduction of these emissions in the field of air transport.”
While no official figures exist for the ban’s direct impact, data reveals a 3.4 percent decrease in domestic flight emissions in 2023 compared to 2022, a trend not seen internationally. This suggests the ban has played a role in reducing domestic air travel. Jérôme du Boucher, aviation manager for Transport & Environment, emphasizes that this decrease aligns with the French national rail company SNCF’s return to pre-pandemic business levels, implying a potential shift towards rail travel. However, quantifying the ban’s specific contribution remains difficult.
The ban is set to remain in place for at least three years, after which the French government will assess its impact. While the ban’s CO2 reduction may be limited, its broader significance lies in its political message and influence on public behavior. The legislation has sparked a national dialogue about sustainable travel and “sobriété,” or moderation, encouraging people to reconsider the necessity of short-haul flights. This shift in perception has a tangible effect on travel choices, with 41 percent of respondents in a recent DGAC survey stating they would use alternative modes of transport for domestic journeys if flying wasn’t possible.
The ban’s influence extends beyond France, as other European countries like Spain are considering similar regulations. The European Commission’s approval of the French ban creates a precedent, making it easier for other EU nations to implement similar policies. This demonstrates the ban’s potential to act as a catalyst for broader change in sustainable travel practices across Europe.
