From 1 April, UK travellers aged over 16 will face Air Passenger Duty (APD) increases of up to 15%, marking a significant rise in flight costs, especially for long-haul destinations. This tax, already included in ticket prices, varies depending on the flight distance and class.
The latest APD adjustment affects Band B routes, which cover distances between 2,001 and 5,500 miles, including popular destinations such as the USA, UAE, and India. Economy passengers will now pay £102 instead of £90, while those flying in premium classes will see their charges rise from £216 to £244.
Willie Walsh, Director General of the International Air Transport Association, criticized the hike as a “short-sighted cash-grab,” warning it harms the industry.
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Dan Owens, CEO of Belfast International Airport, expressed concern about the impact on UK tourism and aviation growth. Highlighting Northern Ireland’s reliance on air travel due to limited rail alternatives, Owens argued that the increased tax makes the region less appealing to airlines and stifles economic expansion. He urged the Northern Ireland Executive to consider reducing APD to boost international connectivity and help achieve the region’s tourism growth target of £2 billion by 2030.
Clive Wratten, CEO of the Business Travel Association, stressed that rising APD costs threaten business travel and economic growth. He emphasized that the tax disproportionately affects frontline workers on economy-class flights who facilitate vital trade relationships, rather than senior executives flying business class.
With APD revenues already substantial—£4.195 billion collected in 2024-25—further increases of 3.6% place additional financial burdens on travellers and risk dampening the UK’s global connectivity and economic development.