Abta is calling for its members, representatives of the travel industry, holidaymakers and business travellers to write to their MPs to voice concern that the government will drastically increase taxes on long-haul flights later this year.
The new government has outlined plans to reform Air Passenger Duty [APD] and replace it with a per-plane duty [PPD].
Abta cautiously welcomed this announcement, but has warned against “aggressive and punitive rates of tax that will price average travellers out of foreign holidays, endanger jobs and damage the UK’s position as a global aviation hub.”
Abta chief executive Mark Tanzer said: “A rise in aviation tax levels will put pressure on jobs and damage local economies that are reliant on tourist expenditure both here and abroad at a time when, as an industry, we are already suffering.
“A fairer banding system that is more closely aligned with distance travelled will be absolutely necessary to ensure that there is no further financial burden on those who can least afford it.
“We’ll be pressing for PPD to be fully consulted upon so that the poorest nations and travellers are not hit the hardest.”
Abta has also announced an “ambitious new plan” today that it said outlines the role of the association and its members in building a “successful and sustainable future for the industry.
Tanzer explained: “Our plan is a long-term vision for the industry. Abta is at the heart of the travel industry, standing for confidence, expertise and fairness.
“We can unite the travel industry and make sure the benefits of travel are maximised. The issues highlighted in the Abta Plan are live, real and ones we must tackle effectively. We will always be committed to the success and sustainability of our members, and this commitment will also benefit the wider travel industry.”
Abta’s Plan comes in the form of a circle, which is cut into segments such as ‘recognition’, ‘rewarding jobs’ and ‘confident customers’.