Support for the Fair Tax on Flying campaign broke the target set by organisers today as the numbers emailing MPs to demand a review of Air Passenger Duty (APD) passed 100,000.
Abta chief executive Mark Tanzer hailed the success, saying: “It’s time for the government to listen.” He added: “We expect this number to continue to grow.”
At the same time the London Chamber of Commerce released research among its members showing more than half (56%) believe APD is a barrier to exports.
The campaign, launched eight weeks ago, has won the backing of 75 MPs from all parties who have signed an Early Day Motion demanding a debate in Parliament.
Organisers confirmed the campaign would continue, with plans already being drawn up for the return of Parliament.
There is also a new facility on the campaign site for non-UK residents to register their support for A Fair Tax on Flying.
Darren Caplan, chief executive of the Airport Operators Association, said: “We have reached 100,000, but we will not stop there. It is clear beyond doubt APD is one of the most-hated stealth taxes in the UK.
“We hope people will continue to let their MPs know what they think about high levels of APD, and we hope this will lead the chancellor to call off further APD increases and instead announce a study of the impact of APD on the economy.”
British Air Transport Association chief executive Simon Buck said: “The support has been fantastic.”
Colin Stanbridge, chief executive of the London Chamber of Commerce, said: “It is fantastic that so many people have contacted their MPs. I urge all those who have been contacted to listen to their constituents and put pressure on the chancellor to look again at APD.”
Campaign organisers revealed every MP has received an A Fair Tax on Flying email, with the prime minister receiving 200 and cabinet members 5,700.
The London Chamber of Commerce said almost 20,000 Londoners had backed the campaign.