Air Passenger Duty (APD) will increase across all distance bands and cabin classes from 1 April 2026, raising the cost of flying from UK airports and placing the biggest burden on long‑haul and premium‑cabin travellers.
The updated rates, confirmed by HMRC, are designed to restore the tax’s real‑terms value after several years of high inflation.
For short‑haul flights up to 2,000 miles (Band A), the reduced economy rate will rise to £15, while non‑economy cabins will increase to £32 per passenger.
Long‑haul travellers face steeper increases. Band B (2,001–5,500 miles) economy rates will rise to £102, with premium cabins increasing to £244. For ultra‑long‑haul Band C routes, economy rises to £106 and premium cabins to £253. The higher rate applied mainly to large private jets will jump by more than 50%, reaching £1,097–£1,141 depending on distance.
The government says the uplift ensures APD keeps pace with inflation and maintains a “fair contribution” from aviation to public finances. Airlines, however, warn that the increases will push up fares, particularly on long‑haul and premium routes, and may influence demand.
For travellers, the impact will be immediate. Many 2026 long‑haul fares are already on sale, meaning the higher APD is now baked into ticket prices. Multi‑city itineraries and premium‑cabin bookings will feel the rise most sharply, and businesses may need to adjust travel budgets accordingly.
The new rates apply to all chargeable passengers departing a UK airport from 1 April 2026.