The Carbon Crusane Airline fears of a global proliferation of emission tax schemes are beginning to be realized, with the Australian government the latest to try to extract money from carriers under the guise of environmental concern. Just as the battle over a European Emissions Trading System (ETS) is reaching a crescendo, Australia's Labor government has unveiled a plan for large companies—including airlines—to pay a carbon tax of AU$23 ($25.17) per ton from July 2012. This will morph into a cap-and-trade system in 2015. The carbon tax will only apply to domestic operations, although it will still mean major outlays for airlines. The Qantas group estimates annual costs of up to AU$115 million, Virgin Australia projects a bill of AU$45 million and even a small regional operator like Brindabella Airlines will see annual costs of AU$250,000.
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