3 Jan 2012

European carbon tax for airlines introduced

9:35 am on 3 January 2012

A new carbon tax on airlines flying in Europe is officially in place, despite diplomatic pressure in support of affected businesses.

The European Union tax makes all flights travelling through the continent liable for their carbon emissions, meaning airlines have to buy additional credits.

The European Court of Justice last year rejected a case brought by US airlines, which argued the new EU system violated international aviation agreements.