Ryanair to Cut UK Flights by 10% in Response to Increased Air Passenger Duty
Ryanair will reduce flights to and from UK airports by 10% next year following the Labour government’s decision to raise air passenger duty (APD) in the recent budget. CEO Michael O’Leary criticised the tax increase, stating it will make air travel more costly and harm the UK’s competitiveness compared to countries like Ireland and Italy, which are eliminating travel taxes to boost tourism and job growth. The new APD rates, set to rise from 2026/27, will add up to £2 on economy short-haul flights, with private jet users facing a 50% increase.
O’Leary warned the tax hike could reduce Ryanair’s UK passenger numbers by up to five million, calling the policy a “shortsighted tax grab” that could hurt tourism and deter travel to the UK. This criticism echoes recent comments from AirportsUK’s chief executive, who expressed disappointment over the APD increase.
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