What is air passenger duty?
Air Passenger Duty is a UK tax on passengers flying from UK airports. The amount depends on distance and class of travel. For 2026/27 an economy passenger pays £15 on a short-haul flight under 2,000 miles and £102 on longer flights up to 5,500 miles. Private jet passengers pay much more.
Airlines collect the duty and include it in ticket prices. Rates are set by distance band and class. From 1 April 2026, the reduced rate for economy is £15 for band A, £102 for band B and £106 for band C. Standard rates for premium cabins are £32, £244 and £253. The higher rate for private jets is £142 to £1,141.
Domestic flights have their own rates of £8, £16 and £142. Children under 16 flying in economy are exempt. Passengers on flights leaving the Scottish Highlands and Islands are also exempt. Connecting passengers on the same ticket do not usually pay twice. Rates will be rounded to the nearest penny from 2027/28. Flights on aircraft weighing under 5.7 tonnes are exempt.
Air Passenger Duty raises several billion pounds a year. Environmental groups argue it is too low given the climate impact of flying, and some back a frequent flyer levy. Airlines and airports say it is among the highest flight taxes in Europe and hurts tourism and connections. It taxes passengers rather than the fuel burned. Fuel for international flights is untaxed.
Who it affects: Air passengers departing the UK
Many on the left want higher taxes on frequent flyers and private jets to reflect the climate impact of aviation.
Many on the right want Air Passenger Duty cut, arguing it makes holidays and business travel too expensive.
Britain is split. Now you decide.
In Population Decides you can raise or cut Air Passenger Duty in your Budget and balance revenue, emissions and holidaymakers' anger.
Play Population Decides freeCommon questions
How much is Air Passenger Duty?
For 2026/27 economy passengers pay £15 short haul and £102 to £106 long haul.
Do children pay Air Passenger Duty?
Children under 16 travelling in the lowest class are exempt.
Do I pay Air Passenger Duty on flights into the UK?
No. It only applies to flights departing from UK airports.