Abta has confirmed its intention to continue the campaign for a review of Air Passenger Duty (APD) despite disappointment at the Chancellor’s failure to freeze or review the duty in last week’s Budget.
APD rates on medium and long-haul fares will rise next week after George Osborne ignored intense lobbying, including by many Tory MPs.
Abta played a key role in the campaign for a review by the industry coalition A Fair Tax on Flying which has spearheaded efforts to change the government’s mind on APD and at least win a freeze on rates.
Abta head of public affairs Luke Pollard said: “There is a determination from members of the campaign to see this through.
“Anyone who works in policy or public affairs knows this is a long-term commitment.
“We have a government that didn’t listen to its own backbenchers or to the industry.”
He added: “There will be siren voices, but MPs will tell you APD is a postbag issue now. We have made progress.
“The Chancellor’s party is, by and large, convinced of the argument about APD. It is not the time to give up.”