Ryanair slashes UK flights over 'idiotic' tax hike
Ryanair plans to reduce the number of flights from the United Kingdom by 10 percent. This decision comes as a sharp reaction to the planned increase in aviation tax in the British Isles. Michael O'Leary, the head of the airline, has labelled the government's plan as "idiotic."
Ryanair announced that it will decrease its flights to and from the United Kingdom by 10 per cent in response to the decision to raise the aviation tax. Michael O'Leary, head of Ryanair, has sharply criticised this decision, calling it an "idiotic" move that will harm the UK economy.
Aviation tax hike
The aviation tax on flights to popular European destinations, such as Spain and Italy, is set to increase by 15 per cent. This translates to an additional £2 on the price of an economy class ticket. O'Leary claims that this increase will render air travel more expensive for British families.
"This short-sighted tax grab will make air travel significantly more expensive for ordinary British families going on holidays abroad and render the UK a less competitive travel destination compared to Ireland, Sweden, Hungary, and Italy, where governments are eliminating travel taxes to stimulate traffic, tourism, and job growth in their economies," said the airline's chief.
Criticism from the industry
The decision has faced criticism not only from Ryanair. Karen Dee from AirportsUK and former British Airways chief Willie Walsh have also expressed their dissatisfaction. Walsh emphasised that the increase contradicts the government's industrial strategy.
Reactions to the increase
The increase in aviation tax is not the only controversial decision in the budget. Farmers have also voiced their dissatisfaction due to changes in inheritance tax. Protests are planned in London, which could potentially paralyse the city.
Government response
The government defends its decision, asserting that the increase will affect only a small portion of households. Chancellor of the Exchequer Rachel Reeves announced that the Air Passenger Duty (APD) will rise from the financial year 2026/27, resulting in a £2 increase in the price of a short-haul economy ticket. Private jet users will face a 50 per cent increase in APD.
