The long haul rates of air passenger duty (APD) for the tax year 2020-21 will increase in line with the retail price index (RPI), Chancellor Philip Hammond confirmed in his budget, but short haul rates will stay the same
The rates for the tax year 2020 to 2021 will have effect in relation to the carriage of chargeable passengers on or after 1 April 2020.
Short-haul APD rates for 2020-21 will not rise, remaining at the same level they have been since 2012, benefitting 80% of passengers. Long-haul rates will increase in line with RPI.
This means that the rates for long-haul economy will increase by £2, and the rates for those travelling in premium economy, business and first class will increase by £4. Those travelling long-haul by private jets will see the rate increase by £13.
The measure is not expected to have any impact on the Exchequer.
APD rates from 1 April 2020
Bands (distance in miles from London) | Reduced rate (lowest class of travel) | Standard rate (1) (other than the lowest class of travel) | Higher rate (2) |
|---|---|---|---|
Band A (0 – 2000 miles) | £13 | £26 | £78 |
Band B (over 2000 miles) | £80 | £176 | £528 |
(1) If any class of travel provides a seat pitch in excess of 1.016 metres (40 inches) the standard rate is the minimum rate that applies.
(2) The higher rate applies to flights aboard aircraft of 20 tonnes and above with fewer than 19 seats.
Air Passenger Duty: rates from 1 April 2020 to 31 March 2021 is here.
Report by Amy Austin
