NO AVIATION TAX

The UK is currently the odd country out in Europe with other Governments either abolishing aviation taxation or cancelling planned introduction of tax. As to the Dutch experience, the NL APD only lasted a year – it did not apply to transfer pax or freight aircraft. It was removed after it became apparent that the net tax position was worse off with NL APD than without it – i.e. although NL APD raised revenue, it resulted in greater losses of revenue. Dutch travellers decided to depart Europe from Germany or France, not AMS. Balpa’s website describes it as follows:
The Dutch Experience

The Netherlands introduced an airport tax similar to APD in July 2008. However, it lasted only until July 2009 before the Government scrapped the scheme. The tax was €11.25 for short-haul passengers and €45 for long-haul passengers.

The decision to abolish the tax was taken after a campaign by the Dutch transport and travel industry. It showed the importance of Schiphol airport to the wider Dutch economy and the impact the Duty would have on the aviation sector.

The campaign consisted of petitions, lobbying politicians, media campaigns and the publication of academic research. The research found that:

1. There would be a decline of 10% of passengers using Dutch airports.

2. The number of in-bound tourists and business passengers would decrease by 2%, producing a loss of €83m income.

3. Airports would lose €90m/annum income.

4. The State would lose €100-€200m due to costs associated with unemployment with a total loss for the Dutch treasury of around €150-€280m/annum.

The Belgians and the Swedes never introduced their announced taxes and the Danes have removed their APD.

The Airport Operators Association is completing a study into the impact of APD on UK airports and routes. It will look at taxation sensitivities surrounding aviation but these results are not likely to be available until early September.

http://search.petitions.number10.gov.uk/kbroker/number10/petitions/searc...

if you agree click on link and find two petitions regarding UK aviation tax.

The more who sign the more attention can be brought to the matter.