**Ryanair Announces 10% Cut in UK Flights Amidst Criticism of Budget Air Tax Hike**
Ryanair, one of the leading budget airlines, has revealed its plans to reduce flights to and from UK airports by 10% in the coming year. This decision comes in response to the recent announcement by Labour to increase the tax on airline tickets in the autumn Budget. The Chief executive of Ryanair, Michael O’Leary, expressed his discontent with the Budget, stating that it has negatively impacted the growth prospects of the UK and raised the cost of air travel significantly. As a result of this increase, Ryanair anticipates a potential decrease of up to five million passengers at UK airports.
The criticism stems from the decision to raise the air passenger duty (APD) starting from the 2026/27 financial year. This hike will add up to £2 to the cost of an economy ticket for a short-haul flight, with private jet users facing a 50% increase in APD. The rates of passenger duty are determined based on the flight’s distance and cabin class. Michael O’Leary expressed the importance of making flying more affordable in the UK, emphasizing that the tax rise has damaged tourism and air travel to and from the country.
The Chief executive further criticised the decision by Chancellor Rachel Reeves, labelling it as “idiotic” and predicting that it would lead to cuts rather than growth. O’Leary highlighted that this move would make air travel more expensive for families going on holidays and diminish the UK’s competitiveness compared to countries like Ireland, Sweden, Hungary, and Italy, which are abolishing travel taxes to stimulate economic growth.
Despite setting a record for passenger numbers in August, Ryanair’s profits experienced a significant decline of 46% earlier in the year due to a drop in average air fares. The Chancellor defended the decision, stating that the adjustment in APD was necessary as it had not kept up with inflation in recent years. However, the industry response has been less than positive, with Karen Dee, the Chief executive of AirportsUK, expressing disappointment in the announcement.
Michael O’Leary’s critique of the policy adds to the growing concerns within the aviation sector regarding the impact of rising taxes on air travel. As the debate continues, the future of the UK aviation industry hangs in the balance, with both airlines and passengers awaiting further developments and potential adjustments to the taxation policies affecting air travel.