Reform UK Vows to Abolish Air Passenger Duty for Family Holidays
Reform UK has unveiled a significant policy pledge to eliminate air passenger duty (APD) on short-haul flights for families travelling with children if the party secures victory in the upcoming general election. The announcement was made during a press conference held near Heathrow Airport, where party leader Nigel Farage and Treasury spokesman Robert Jenrick outlined the details of this proposed tax cut.
A 'Family Holiday Tax' Under Fire
Robert Jenrick, who defected from the Conservative Party earlier this year, branded APD as a "family holiday tax" that unfairly burdens ordinary families seeking to travel. He emphasised that Reform's policy would provide tangible savings, estimating that families could save approximately £45 on international flights or £48 on domestic flights under the new scheme.
"In our first budget, we will get rid of the family holiday tax," Jenrick declared. "Air passenger duty will be gone for short-haul family trips, that will save a family on average £45 on their flights, whether that's abroad, or £48 if they're going on holiday here in the UK."
Brexit Benefits and Fairness Claims
Nigel Farage described the proposed abolition of APD as a clear "Brexit benefit," arguing that it demonstrates how leaving the European Union allows for more tailored and consumer-friendly policies. He strongly denied suggestions that the move would primarily advantage wealthier individuals who fly more frequently, insisting instead that it would be "equitable and fair in every way."
The policy would apply to any holiday booked by an adult travelling with children under the age of 18, including parents, grandparents, aunts, uncles, and even school trips. Jenrick highlighted that this could mean a saving of around 23% on flight costs for a family travelling to destinations like Malaga.
Current APD Rates and Increases
This announcement comes just as APD rates are set to increase from Wednesday. Under the new structure, passengers travelling in economy class will face charges of £8 for domestic flights and £15 for short-haul flights up to 2,000 miles. Jenrick criticised the £15 rate as "insane," noting that it represents a tax rate of approximately 33% on Ryanair's average ticket price.
For longer journeys, the APD will rise to £102 for long-haul flights (2,001 to 5,500 miles) and £106 for ultra long-haul flights (over 5,500 miles). Premium cabin passengers will incur higher charges, ranging from £16 for domestic flights to £253 for ultra long-haul trips. Private jet passengers face even steeper rates, with fees of £142 for domestic or short-haul flights, escalating to £1,141 for ultra long-haul travel.
Industry Support and Political Criticism
The aviation industry has long advocated for reductions or complete removal of APD, arguing that such measures would stimulate demand for air travel. In January last year, Ryanair CEO Michael O'Leary criticised the Chancellor for increasing APD, claiming she "hasn't a clue" about fostering growth in the aviation sector.
However, the Labour Party has strongly opposed Reform's proposal. A Labour spokesperson accused Nigel Farage of hypocrisy, noting his frequent international travel and substantial earnings since becoming an MP. "Reform are not on your side," the spokesperson stated. "Labour took the fair choice to hike tax on big private jets, which Farage opposed. Only Labour is delivering a serious plan to ease the cost of living for families."
Broader Political Context
Shadow Chancellor Sir Mel Stride dismissed Reform's announcement as "half-baked," urging the party to explain a purported £10.5 billion funding gap in their policies. "A Reform government would be an economic catastrophe," Stride warned. "Serious times call for serious thinking – not gimmicks and economic illiteracy."
Meanwhile, Nigel Farage claimed that the Labour Party is facing an "existential" crisis, with potential collapse among its voter base. Jenrick contrasted Reform's approach with that of the current government, remarking, "Whilst we're cutting it at Reform, on the first of April – April Fool's Day, of course – Rachel Reeves is hiking this same tax. That's the difference between Reform and this Labour Government."
As the debate intensifies, Reform UK's pledge to scrap APD for family holidays positions the party as a champion of consumer-friendly tax cuts, while critics question its fiscal feasibility and broader economic impact.
