APD – Air Passenger Duty for Children to be Scrapped

Updated 26.02.2016

What is APD?

Air Passenger Duty – APD is a UK Government excise duty tax that was introduced twenty years ago in 1994.

APD is charged for each passenger who boards a flight at a UK airport. Since the tax was introduced, children have paid the same as adults with one exception, infants under the age of 2.

Initially the charges were £5.00 for European flights and £10.00 for long-haul flights, but over the years we have seen a steady increase in the charges.

The current charge for passengers in economy class is –

Band A flights – up to 2,000 miles covering all of Europe, including North Africa and Turkey £13.00

Band B – 2,001 to 4000 miles £69.00

Band C – 4,001 to 6000 miles £85.00

Band D – Over 6,000 miles £97.00

What’s changing?

UK chancellor George Osborne has recently announced some great news for families. On the 5^th December 2014  APD – Air Passenger Duty for children under 12 is to be scrapped for those travelling in economy whereas children under 16 will have to wait until May 2016 – just in time for those much needed summer holidays.

How do I Claim This Money Back?

Some airlines are refunding your APD charge automatically, whereas with some you will need to fill out a form online. Click here for a list of popular airlines and there process.

If you are unsure we suggest you contact your airline direct.

How much will I save?

If your holiday is a short haul flight flying in economy class 2,000 miles or less, the saving will be £13.00 per child.

For flights with a distance of over 2,000 the saving will be £71.00 per child.

This means a family of 2 adults and 2 children will save £26.00 on a holiday to Majorca and £142.00 on a holiday to Mexico.

Check out our best deals at www.holidayhypermarket.co.uk