What Is Air Passenger Duty And How Much Does It Cost Now?

If you're planning to jet off on holiday in the next couple of years, you might have heard about changes to air passenger duty (APD) – that's the tax we all pay on flights leaving UK airports.

The main thing to know? If you're flying economy to places like Spain, Greece or France, it'll cost an extra £2 per adult from April 2026.

That's not too scary for a family break, especially since kids under 16 don't pay this tax in economy class (more on that money-saving tip later!).

However, if you're planning long-haul trips or flying business class, the changes are a bit bigger.

Here's our complete guide to everything you need to know about the changes to air passenger duty, from exactly when they're happening to how much extra you might need to budget.

What exactly is changing with Air Passenger Duty (APD)?

From 1 April 2026, passengers will pay £2 more for economy short-haul flights, with the rate increasing from £13 to £15. The tax is also rising for other flight categories, with the most significant increase affecting private jet users, who will see a 50% rise in their rates.

When will these changes take effect?

There are actually two upcoming changes. The first increase – which will affect some higher classes of fares and long-haul flights – comes into effect on 1 April 2025. The second, larger increase, which impacts many short-haul flights on budget airlines, will follow on 1 April 2026.

Several passengers standing in a queue while waiting for check-in registration before their flight at an airport all holding luggage

Who has to pay APD?

Most passengers flying from UK airports must pay APD. However, children under sixteen travelling in economy class are exempt. Children under two without their own seat are also exempt, but if they have their own seat, they'll need to pay APD if travelling in premium classes.

How much would this cost a family of five going on holiday?

Let's break down the costs for a family of five (two adults and three children under sixteen) flying economy class to Europe in 2026:

Adults: £15 × 2 = £30 (for outbound flights)

Children under 16: £0 (exempt in economy)

Total for return trip: £30 (as APD is only charged on outbound flights from UK)

This means a family holiday will cost £4 more in APD from 2026.

However, if the same family opted for premium economy or business class, all family members (including children) would pay the standard rate of £32 each, totaling £320 for a return journey. That’s £60 more than what you’d pay today.

Will this affect all my flights the same way?

No, the amount you pay depends on your destination and class of travel. From April 2026, the rates will start from:

Domestic flights: £8 (economy)
Short-haul international (Band A, up to 2,000 miles): £15 (economy)
Medium-haul (Band B, 2,001-5,500 miles): £102 (economy)
Long-haul (Band C, over 5,500 miles): £106 (economy)

Could this affect flight availability?

Yes, there's a real possibility of reduced flight options, particularly on domestic routes. Ryanair CEO Michael O'Leary has been particularly pointed about domestic routes, which he says "barely break even." Following the budget announcement, he revealed plans to redirect capacity for five million passengers from the UK to countries with lower aviation taxes, specifically mentioning Hungary, Sweden and Italy as alternative markets.

Industry bodies have also expressed concern. Karen Dee, chief executive of AirportsUK, called the increase "disappointing," particularly given that airports are currently investing in new security technologies and sustainable flight initiatives.

This could mean fewer flight options and potentially higher prices on remaining routes as airlines adjust their operations in response to the increased costs.

Budget carriers, which operate on particularly tight margins, may be most likely to reduce services or withdraw from less profitable routes.

The back of a woman looking up at a departure board in an airport

Can I get a refund on APD if I cancel my flight?

Yes, if you miss or cancel your flight, you can claim back any APD paid through your airline. This is particularly worth doing for long-haul flights and premium cabins where the APD charges are higher.

Will this help the environment?

Interestingly, while APD was originally introduced partly as an environmental measure, government reports suggest these increases will have "a negligible impact on the environment," according to the latest government assessment.