At GroupExpression, we've been working with major players in the mobility and air transport sectors for over twenty years, both in France and abroad. This unique positioning gives us a concrete perspective on the evolution of the sector: its transformations, its constraints, its innovations... but also the difficulties it faces. Our responsibility is to work alongside our customers to provide a clear, constructive and committed view of a vital sector.
Why does an over-simplistic approach hinder the airline industry's transition?
For several months now, aviation has been the subject of increasing public debate. They often focus on environmental issues, and rightly so, but sometimes obscure the complexity of the subject. The recent increase in the Airline Ticket Solidarity Tax (TSBA) is a case in point. This measure, adopted without consulting the industry, has given rise to considerable concern. And with good reason: it puts a heavy strain on certain business models already in difficulty, particularly in business aviation, but also in key segments of regional and overseas transport.
We are well placed to measure this: several of our customers, all committed to ambitious transition trajectories, are seeing their room for maneuver shrink. Budgetary trade-offs are becoming more complex, innovation is under pressure and certain investments may be forced to slow down. Far from "punishing polluters", these mechanisms are undermining key players in the French economy and its international influence.
This is not to question the need to transform air transport. Quite the contrary, in fact. But over the years, we have become firmly convinced that this transformation can only succeed if it is based on a clear, balanced strategy that takes account of the realities on the ground.
Take business aviation, for example: this sector alone accounts for 100,000 direct and indirect jobs in France, with an economic output of 32 billion euros. It's also a lever for sovereignty, opening up regions and maintaining jobs. Entire industrial value chains rely on its stability, and the TSBA hike has put them in immediate jeopardy.
Supporting players on the road to more sustainable and responsible aviation
At GroupExpression, we work alongside our customers to make this voice heard. We know how much public opinion, decision-makers and the media need to be able to read the facts, the right stories, the evidence. That's what our work is all about: defending innovation without denying complexity; promoting commitments without simplifying the issues. For us, it's a question of supporting legitimate battles, waged by companies that are essential to their regions, aware of their impact and determined to bring about changes in practices, particularly in the environmental and social fields. Alongside EBAA France in particular, we are proud to be defending the establishment of a Europe-wide SAF industry, the feminization of aviation professions, and the voice of aviation, so disparaged yet so decisive.
Today, more than ever, it's essential to reestablish an expert, documented voice on air transport. It's time to move away from simplism and find lasting, balanced solutions. At GroupExpression, we are convinced that accompanying the transformation of the sector does not require stigmatization, but rather open dialogue between all stakeholders. For beyond its challenges, air transport remains an essential lever of cohesion, innovation and sovereignty for our country.
