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Airport Operators Association Media Release

For immediate release - 14 April 2010

UK AIRPORT OPERATORS WARN AGAINST TAX INCREASES ON AVIATION

  • Liberal Democrats proposal to raise £3.5bn from aviation will costs jobs says AOA Chairman
  • A Per Plane Duty would disproportionately impact airports in the regions

Responding to the publication of the Liberal Democrats Manifesto, Ed Anderson, Chairman of the Airport Operators Association, said: “Today’s proposals by the Liberal Democrats would cost the UK jobs. The UK already has the highest levels of aviation tax in Europe.

It is wrong to target domestic aviation for additional levels of taxation. For many journeys, particularly on business, flying is the only realistic option. Consumers should be able to make a choice on the type of transport they choose based on price, convenience and environmental impact.”

“A Per Plane Duty will penalise our passengers and businesses, who are still suffering the effects of the recession and will slow the recovery. The UK would stand to lose jobs associated with the express freight industry’s activities at airports and new flights from UK regions will have an added barrier to success. These flights are essential to bring in new investment and jobs.”

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Notes to Editors:

  1. The Airport Operators Association (AOA) is the trade association that represents the interests of British airports. Our membership comprises 72 airport companies, representing all of the nation's international hub and major regional airports in addition to many serving community, business and general aviation.
     
  2. Direct services to UK regional airports are vital for regional economies to grow. These direct flights make travel easier and attract inward investment. The number of international routes from UK airports fell by 18% in 2009 (AOA 2010). A per flight tax makes it less likely that regional airports will be able to develop long and short haul point to point routes outside the South East of England.
     
  3. The Liberal Democrat Manifesto is available at: http://www.libdems.org.uk/our_manifesto.aspx
     
  4. For further information, and for media requests, please contact David Bishop (Head of Policy) – 07917 681940; or Ed Anderson (Chairman) - 07711 837717