Call for an instant quote 0345 90 80 161
Open Mon to Fri 08:30 - 19:00 | Sat 09:00 - 16:00 (GMT)
23 November 2016 08:17
The chief executives of IAG, easyJet and Ryanair say scrapping the tax will boost economic growth, business and tourism
Top airline bosses are urging the government to scrap air passenger duty ahead of Wednesday's Autumn Statement.
The chief executives of IAG, easyJet and Ryanair are calling on the controversial tax to be scrapped to help boost economic growth, business and tourism.
Thousands of jobs could be created
Under the umbrella group Airlines for Europe (A4E), Willie Walsh, Carolyn McCall and Michael O'Leary have issued a statement saying the removal of the tax is needed to strengthen global business links post-Brexit, saying its removal would boost GDP by 1.7% and create 61,000 new jobs by 2020.
The Airport Operators Association and cross-party MPs who make up the British Infrastructure Group are also calling for an end to the tax.
Tax is set to rise
Short-haul passengers are currently charged £13 for every flight leaving from the UK, while long-haul passengers are charged £146. This fee is set to increase to up to £150 next April.
Mr Walsh said: "APD damages the UK's competitiveness and jobs. It's a revenue-raising tax designed to suppress air transport growth which is exactly what the economy does not need right now.
"Britain spends many millions of pounds attracting people to the country, only to charge them up to £146 when they leave."
The IAG chief says other countries which have scrapped their aviation taxes have seen an immediate boost to their GDP and tourism.
"Why saddle businesses and tourists with a tax that your European competitors do not have?" he added. "APD is well past its sell-by date and must be scrapped."
Ms McCall says Easyjet want the UK to be "open for business".
"Removing APD, a tax on passengers that suffocates demand, would certainly stimulate economic growth and make travel easier and more affordable," she said. "There is so much evidence to support this in other countries."
Travellers with flights booked should make sure they take out travel insurance so they are protected against flight delays and cancellations.
08 August 2019
Want to explore off the beaten track? Discover your new Grecian paradise in one of these secluded island locations...
[more...]
Find your favourite Greek food with our guide on how to let your taste buds explore the delicious flavours of Greece.
Ever wondered what life was like in Ancient Greece? Explore the city that many call the birthplace of Western civilisation by visiting these fantastic attractions in the legendary city of Athens.
Which Greek Island should I visit? A common question if you want to experience the beauty of Greece's many islands. Find the answer in our quick guide to ten of the best.
02 August 2019
What's the best beach resort in Portugal? Find out with our guide to some of the best seaside getaways Portugal has to offer...
Want to experience the taste of Portugal? Make sure you're hungry when you try some of these excellent foods that showcase the best of Portuguese cuisine.
Ready to explore one of Central Europe's grandest cities? Check out these must-see attractions in Hungary's beguiling capital, Budapest...
The Hungarian Grand Prix is one of the best motorsport experiences around, and here's everything you need to know if you're going this summer.
17 July 2019
Heading to Porto? Get more out of your visit and explore the best things to eat, drink and do in Portugal's second city with these great tips.
Want to experience a different side of Portugal? Check out one of these great destinations that lie a step or two away from the standard tourist trail...
08 July 2019
Want to taste the real France? Experience the best French food and drink at one of these excellent foodie festivals. Perfect for food and wine lovers everywhere!
Tired of the same old travel options? Explore the best travel experiences at one of these weird and wacky festivals from around the world.