Call for an instant quote 0345 90 80 161
Open Mon to Fri 09:00 - 17:30 | Sat 09:00 - 16:00 (GMT)
Or call 0345 90 80 161
11 April 2011 13:38
Air passengers have been spared increased flight costs with the delay in APD hike
Chancellor George Osborne has put off plans for the inflation-linked increase in Air Passenger Duty (APD) airport departure tax until April 2012, offering much-needed relief to travel insurance holders.
Holidaymakers have been facing a steady increase in APD since its introduction in 1994. The increase in November last year pushed up the rate for air passengers on the longest flights by up to £170.
However, some business and luxury travellers may be affected as Mr Osborne announced tax would be imposed on private jets.
He said a proposal to replace APD with a per-plane levy is also being deferred as all options currently being considered would violate international law.
A consultation will also be launched on reforming APD to correct existing problems with the system.
Highlighted some of the issues, Mr Osborne told MPs that APD assumed that the Caribbean was further away from the UK than California.
Mike Carrivick, chief executive of the Board of Airline Representatives in the UK, which represents 86 airlines, said: "The Chancellor's decision on APD is a welcome development but does not go far enough.
"The UK travel industry already pays the highest aviation taxes in Europe and the existing APD levels do not take into account the EU Emissions Trading Scheme (EU ETS) which airlines will pay into from January 2012. Other EU countries have reduced or are removing existing taxes prior to the introduction of EU ETS."
16 April 2019
Keen to see first-hand who gets crowned champions of Europe? Europe's biggest football match takes place in Madrid: here's your guide to everything you need to know.
[more...]
18 April 2019
Going away with your children? Beat the stress of travelling with your family with these great travel tips. Here's what you need to know if you're travelling with kids this Easter.
Heading to Madrid? Here's our guide to six must-see places you should visit in the Spanish capital, from food markets to fine art and plenty in between.
10 April 2019
Experience the magic of Madrid's Fiesta de San Isidro 2019! Discover where to stay, what to eat and what to see as you explore one of Spain's greatest festivals.
Experience Seville's intoxicating Feria de Abril and discover Andalucía's most famous festival! Here's your ultimate guide to La Feria.
01 April 2019
Songkran is Thailand's famous New Year's festival - and the world's biggest water fight. Here's everything you need to know before you plan your trip.
Travelling to Thailand? Learn the important local traditions and cultures to ensure you act respectfully in 'The land of a thousand smiles.'
Travelling overseas with young children? Make going through the airport easy and stress-free by following these top tips for surviving the airport with kids when flying.
25 March 2019
Discover the best places to learn to scuba dive! Check out our list of top dive locations around the world that are perfect for scuba diving beginners.
Looking for some late-season skiing? Here are some of the best places for spring skiing in Europe where you can enjoy reliable snow cover.
19 March 2019
Looking for adventure? Create your perfect Scandinavian weekend with these alternative city break ideas.
Lower your blood pressure with these fresh, healthy foods you can add to your diet.