Lawmakers may end tax break on jet fuel, to Delta’s dismay

FILE - In this April 14, 2008 file photo, a Delta Airlines jet departs Hartsfield Jackson Atlanta International Airport in Atlanta. Georgia lawmakers could take the rare step of eliminating a corporate tax break this session _ despite opposition from one of the state's largest employers, Delta Airlines. State Rep. Earl Ehrhart's initial proposal would only have cut Delta's exemption from taxes on jet fuel but now would affect all airlines. (AP Photo/John Bazemore, file) FILE - In this April 14, 2008 file photo, a Delta Airlines jet departs Hartsfield Jackson Atlanta International Airport in Atlanta. Georgia lawmakers could take the rare step of eliminating a corporate tax break this session _ despite opposition from one of the state's largest employers, Delta Airlines. State Rep. Earl Ehrhart's initial proposal would only have cut Delta's exemption from taxes on jet fuel but now would affect all airlines. (AP Photo/John Bazemore, file)

By Associated Press February 28, 2015 1 min read

ATLANTA (AP) – Georgia lawmakers may eliminate a tax break for all airlines buying jet fuel at the world’s busiest airport.

A bill filed in the House would cut the exemption at Atlanta’s Hartsfield Jackson Airport. Supportive lawmakers say it would help the state get federal money for aviation improvements throughout the state.

They also argue the credit shouldn’t be kept in place forever. A committee could soon approve the bill.

Representatives for Atlanta-based Delta Air Lines say it’s a tax increase that could hurt the airport’s competitiveness.

Lawmakers created the exemption in 2005 as Delta was facing bankruptcy and have extended it several times before making it permanent in 2012. The bill’s sponsor says Delta’s CEO is pushing for tax increases for transportation but opposes losing the airline’s benefit.