Corsica Launches Groundbreaking Subsidy for Off-Season Tourist Flights

The Collectivité de Corse has introduced a pioneering program to finance air travel for tourists during the off-season months of January and February, aiming to boost local tourism and economic activity beyond the peak summer season. Announced by President Gilles Simeoni, the initiative allows tourists to fly to Corsica for as low as €38 to €75 in the low season—a price previously unattainable. Supported by an annual budget of €2.5 million, the program has granted twelve new flight routes to Volotea and Air Corsica to ensure regular services outside July and August.

This innovative approach is designed to attract high-value tourists interested in Corsican culture and gastronomy, diversifying tourism that currently sees 73% of visitor arrivals in summer. Over the next four years, the Collectivité de Corse expects this project to generate economic benefits exceeding €418 million alongside 7 million overnight stays. Despite its promise, there are concerns regarding potential legal challenges related to competition law, with the French government yet to clarify its position on the subsidies.

Simeoni remains optimistic about the initiative's potential and has expressed hopes to extend the program to other major French cities if successful. This unprecedented effort in Europe seeks to revitalize Corsica’s economy during the traditionally slower months by making air travel more accessible and encouraging sustainable tourism development.