United Kingdom
United States
Asia Pacific
Abolition of air tax for youngsters boosts long-haul bookings
More families are booking overseas holidays following the abolition of air passenger duty for under 12s, according to one online agency.
CheapOair claims to have seen a 24% rise in family bookings including young children to long-haul destinations last month compared to May 2014.
The most popular destinations following the abolition of APD for the youngest children include Dubai, Los Angeles, Toronto, Miami and Melbourne, it said.
APD adds up to £71 per person to a flight price to Australia and therefore the cost savings for families are significant, said CheapOair.
The tax will be removed from air fares for children under 16 years from March 2016.
Peter Grover from CheapOair said: "Ever since APD was taken off the flight prices for children under 12 we’ve seen family bookings increase by a quarter.
"The message to the Chancellor is that taxing holidays doesn’t work. More people spending money in the UK economy when booking their travel is better for the business of Britain. Holidays should be about fun and spending quality time together, without tax reform being a serious consideration when booking the family summer getaway."
Linsey McNeill
Editor Linsey McNeill has been writing about travel for more than three decades. Bylines include The Times, Telegraph, Observer, Guardian and Which? plus the South China Morning Post. She also shares insider tips on thetraveljournalist.co.uk
Exploring Brooklands Museum with Alex Patterson
Global Tourism Challenges and Upcoming Events: A Conversation with Don Welsh
Peebles Barbeque: A Legacy of Flavor and Tradition
Exploring Bok Tower Gardens with Erica Smith
Rue’s Living Water Boat Cruises: Exploring Winter Haven’s Chain of Lakes
Durango and Silverton Railroad: A Timeless Journey Through History and Scenic Beauty
Walt Leger on New Orleans’ Resilience and Major Events Ahead
Cindy Mackin Shares Estes Park’s Winter Thrills
Mark Jaronski of Explore Georgia on FIFA World Cup 2026
Connecting Small Businesses to Global Tourism Markets: Nate Huff of Tourism Exchange
North Carolina’s Resilience: Wit Tuttell on Recovery and Tourism
Kittipong Prapattong’s Plan for Thailand’s Tourism Growth: Taxes, Visas, and Campaigns
EU entry-exit system delayed again
Carnival Cruise Line hosts Prague getaway for Fun Ambassadors
Council moves to designate Forest of Dean a Biosphere
US tourism hit with UK, Germany travel warnings
Uganda Airlines launching London flights