BRITISH AIRWAYS, EASYJET, RYANAIR AND VIRGIN ATLANTIC RESPONSE TO PWC REPORT ON THE ECONOMIC IMPACT OF AIR PASSENGER DUTY

Welcoming the PwC report, Willie Walsh, chief executive of British Airways’ parent company, IAG; Carolyn McCall, chief executive easyJet; Michael O’Leary, chief executive Ryanair and Craig Kreeger, chief executive of Virgin Atlantic jointly said:

“The PWC report highlights the critical role that aviation plays as an engine of economic growth for both international commerce and tourism. It confirms that abolishing APD would provide the UK economy with a much needed boost creating 0.46% GDP in the first year and at least £16 billion in the first three years and would also result in almost 60,000 new jobs in the UK.

“It proves that APD is one of the three most destructive taxes; alongside Corporation Tax and Fuel Duty.

“The Chancellor has taken action on those two taxes in the Autumn Statement and we would encourage him to use the forthcoming Budget to remove APD to stimulate economic growth and create jobs.

“Should APD be abolished the aviation industry would be able to move quickly to add new flights in and out of the UK, or invest in new products and services, creating new opportunities for businesses and much needed jobs across the UK.”