Ryanair Announces Major Expansion in Calabria Following Tax Abolition

On July 11th, Ryanair unveiled a significant expansion plan for the Calabrian region, prompted by President Roberto Occhiuto’s decision to eliminate the Italian State’s Municipal/Tourist Tax. This initiative will bring two additional Boeing B737-800 aircraft to Reggio Calabria and Lamezia Terme, along with 15 new routes across the three Calabrian airports: Lamezia Terme, Crotone, and Reggio Calabria.

Ryanair’s investment, totaling $200 million, aims to transform Calabria into a major travel destination by reducing access costs and enhancing connectivity. The airline plans to support over 1,200 jobs in the region and anticipates a 50% increase in passenger numbers, reaching one million annually.

The abolition of the municipal tax is part of a broader trend in Italy, with regions like Friuli Venezia-Giulia also scrapping this levy to attract more tourists. This move is expected to not only boost local tourism but also set a precedent for other regions considering similar measures to enhance their appeal and competitiveness in the travel market.

For the upcoming winter season, Ryanair will introduce 11 new routes, including flights from Reggio Calabria to London Stansted, Brussels Charleroi, and Paris Beauvais. Additionally, four more routes from Lamezia Terme to Trieste, Madrid, Wroclaw, and Bucharest will commence in summer 2025.

Ryanair's CEO, Eddie Wilson, highlighted the Calabrian government's decision as a pivotal move for boosting tourism and economic growth. He urged other Italian regions, particularly Sicily and Sardinia, to consider abolishing the municipal tax to stimulate similar growth.

Marco Franchini, CEO of SACAL Airport, noted that the abolition of the municipal surcharge from August 1st will allow Calabria’s airports to offer more competitive rates. This, combined with infrastructural improvements, is expected to make Calabria’s airport system a significant contributor to the region’s economic development.

These strategic investments and enhancements are set to boost tourism and economic activity in Calabria, promising a period of substantial growth for the region.