EasyJet has joined European rival Air France in condemning France’s plans to add a new eco-tax to flights. The new charge, which ranges from €1.50 to €18, is part of a government plan to raise money to fund improvements in public transport across the country. France hopes to bring in €180 million a year from 2020. Somewhat predictably, airlines hate the idea of more taxes — even if the amount is modest and even if passengers end up paying.

“That is not the right approach. I don’t think there’s any evidence to say that taxes… and even so-called ‘eco taxes’ have done anything good for the environment,” said Johan Lundgren, EasyJet CEO. “On the contrary I think that by adding taxes on to companies you are removing funds that can be used to invest in technology that will have a positive impact on the environment.

Last year the aviation industry contribution to global energy-related CO2 emissions stood at 2.4 per cent, according to climate science website Carbon Brief, but passenger numbers could potentially double to 8.2 billion in 2037.