The Conservative Party is to propose placing a tax on short-haul domestic flights as part of its package of green initiatives.
David Cameron’s party has dropped plans for taxes on air passengers exceeding a fixed number of air miles per year. However, it will press ahead with fuel duty increases and incentives for airlines to improve fuel efficiency.
The 700-page ‘Quality of Life’ report was led by ex-environment secretary John Gummer and millionaire ecologist Zac Goldsmith, The Guardian reported.
Goldsmith said: “You cannot be serious about climate change or quality of life issues unless you address these very difficult issues in relation to short-haul flights.”
Consultation by the Conservatives has found the recently doubled air passenger duty is not directly linked to carbon emissions, and provides no incentive for airlines to be more fuel efficient.