URGENT UPDATE: EasyJet CEO Kenton Jarvis is voicing strong opposition to reports of a potential increase in Air Passenger Duty (APD), warning that such a move could drastically reduce demand from holidaymakers. This warning comes ahead of the UK government’s Budget announcement scheduled for Wednesday, November 1, 2023.
Jarvis emphasizes that a rise in flight taxes could deter travelers as they plan their holidays, potentially impacting the broader travel industry. “Increasing APD will only push families to reconsider their travel plans,” he stated, highlighting the critical need for affordable air travel as the sector continues to recover from the pandemic.
Speculation has intensified around Chancellor Rachel Reeves, who is expected to address the issue in her upcoming Budget speech. If implemented, this tax hike would directly affect flights departing from the UK, posing a significant risk to both airlines and the tourism sector.
The travel industry has been facing numerous challenges, and a tax increase could be a “devastating blow” to consumer confidence. Jarvis’s comments underscore the urgent need for policymakers to consider the ramifications of such decisions on the economy and the recovery of the aviation sector.
As the Budget announcement draws near, all eyes will be on Reeves and her team to see how they balance revenue needs with the health of the travel industry. Stakeholders are urging the government to prioritize measures that support recovery, not hinder it.
Travelers and industry experts alike are encouraged to stay tuned for this crucial announcement, as it could shape the landscape of air travel in the UK for years to come.
