Billund Airport is bracing for a substantial drop in passenger numbers following the termination of its partnership with Ryanair earlier this year. The airport projects a loss of 850,000 travelers in 2024 alone due to the split, according to CEO Jan Hessellund.

The impact is expected to persist into 2026, with the airport anticipating a shortfall of 600,000 passengers compared to pre-split levels. This decline represents a major setback for Billund Airport, which served 3.9 million travelers last year.

Ryanair’s decision to close its base in Billund on April 1 was triggered by the introduction of a new passenger tax in Denmark. The tax adds 50 kroner to the price of every ticket for departures from Danish airports, making operations less financially attractive for the airline.