Airfare costs between France and overseas territories rise sharply

A report commissioned by the Matignon government and led by deputy Jiovanny William reveals that airfare prices between Metropolitan France and its overseas territories have increased by nearly 45 percent since 2019, with average fares rising by almost 35 percent between 2021 and early 2026. The report attributes this increase to factors such as the global health crisis, the war in Ukraine, and regional tensions in the Middle East.

Growing concerns over inequality in overseas territories

The report highlights that the rising cost of air travel has become unsustainable for many residents in the overseas territories, especially in Mayotte, where the perception of inequality is growing. Deputy William notes that the feeling of being "completely apart, and not a full part" of France is raising concerns about national identity and belonging among these populations.

Fuel costs and taxes drive up ticket prices

According to the report, fuel costs typically make up between 25 percent and 35 percent of the total cost of a ticket, and can reach as high as 55 percent during global oil shocks. Additionally, the passenger air transport tax has increased by over 30 percent between 2022 and 2026, largely due to an 181 percent rise in the solidarity rate, which disproportionately affects travelers from overseas territories.

Airlines accused of lack of transparency

The report criticizes the lack of transparency from airlines, noting that the parliamentary mission was repeatedly denied access to precise data on cost breakdowns and profit margins due to what it calls the "business secret." This opacity has fueled public suspicion about arbitrary pricing practices. Airlines also use dynamic pricing, which allows early planners to find cheaper fares but disadvantages those who need to travel urgently for reasons like health or family events.

Disparities in competition and usage among territories

The report highlights stark differences in competition and air travel usage across the overseas territories. While the Antilles and Reunion have several airline operators, Mayotte and Guyana face limited competition. The market concentration index for the Paris-Mayotte route reached 0.608 in 2024, compared to just 0.017 in Reunion. In Mayotte, where round-trip tickets can cost up to 2,139 euros during peak season, the average number of trips per person per year drops to 0.42, far below the 1.6 trips seen in the Antilles.

Public aid disparities between regions

The report also underscores a significant financial disparity in public aid. Corsica receives between 185 and 235 million euros annually to ensure affordable air travel for its 360,000 residents, while the Overseas Mobility Agency (LADOM) received no more than 67 million euros in 2025 to support nearly 2.9 million people in other overseas territories.

Proposals to address airfare challenges

To address these issues, the report outlines fourteen specific proposals. These include establishing a public service obligation (OSP) for flights between Metropolitan France and Mayotte, similar to existing frameworks for other overseas departments, to ensure minimum service levels and regulated pricing. It also calls for airlines to submit cost data to the DGAC for oversight and to set legal limits on dynamic pricing practices.