Wijzigingen in de vliegbelasting (APD) voor privéjets

The UK government is increasing Air Passenger Duty (APD) for private jets in two stages, with changes taking effect in April 2025 and further increases in April 2026. Announced in the Spring Budget on March 6, 2024 and reinforced in the Autumn Budget on October 30, 2024, these adjustments will raise the higher APD rate, which applies to certain private jet flights.

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What is Air Passenger Duty?

Air Passenger Duty (APD) is a tax levied on passengers departing from UK airports. Introduced in 1994, it applies to both commercial and private flights, with rates varying based on the distance of the journey and the class of travel.

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For private jet travellers, APD is typically charged at a higher rate than for commercial flights. The tax is calculated per passenger and is paid by the aircraft operator, who then factors it into the overall charter cost. While APD rates are adjusted periodically, the upcoming increases in 2025 and 2026 mark a more substantial rise in costs for private aviation.

Upcoming Changes to Air Passenger Duty

• From April 2025, APD for private jets will increase in line with inflation.
• From April 2026, the higher rate of APD will increase by 50%, significantly raising the per-passenger tax on long-haul flights.

These changes mean that private jet travellers will see a noticeable increase in tax, particularly on longer routes, though the overall impact on private aviation demand remains to be seen.

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New Air Passenger Duty Rates

Air Passenger Duty is charged at three different rates, depending on how a passenger is flying:

Reduced Rate – Applies to economy-class seats on commercial flights.

Standard Rate – Applies to premium economy, business, and first-class tickets.

Higher Rate – Applies to private jet flights on aircraft over 20 tonnes with fewer than 19 seats.

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For a detailed breakdown of the applicable bands, please refer to the full list available here.

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How Will This Impact Your Private Jet Charter Flights?

The increase in Air Passenger Duty from April 2026 will be particularly notable for long-haul flights on heavy and ultra long range jets. 

Take a private jet from London to Los Angeles, which typically costs around £100,000 for a Gulfstream G650 or Global 7500 with 15 passengers:

• Until March 2026: APD per passenger = £673
  
  • Total APD cost: £10,095
• From April 2026: APD per passenger = £1,141
  
  • Total APD cost: £17,115

This means that for the same flight, the total APD increases by £7,020, adding an extra £468 per passenger to the cost.

Choosing the Right Jet to Reduce APD Costs

For long-haul private jet flights, aircraft selection can significantly impact Air Passenger Duty. While heavy and ultra-long-range jets offer larger cabins and extended range, some super midsize jets can operate key long-haul routes while reducing tax costs.  

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This is especially relevant for flights within ‘Band B’, such as London to New York (~3,500 miles) or London to Dubai (~3,900 miles), as these fall within the range of certain super midsize jets, like the Gulfstream G280, which can carry up to 10 passengers. Because the G280 weighs under 20 tonnes, it is subject to the lower Standard Rate of APD, whereas a heavy jet like the Challenger 650 is taxed at the higher rate. The difference in tax can be substantial.

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APD Comparison: London to New York (April 2026 Rates, 10 Passengers)

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By choosing a G280 instead of a Challenger 650, APD per passenger drops from £1,097 to £244, resulting in a total APD saving of £8,530 for a group of 10.

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That said, there are limitations to this approach. Super midsize jets like the G280 are capped at 10 passengers, with many models accommodating just 8 or 9. In contrast, a larger jet, such as the Global 6000, offers a far more spacious cabin, greater luggage capacity, and a more comfortable experience—particularly on longer flights.

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Ultimately, it comes down to weighing the tax savings against the enhanced comfort and range of a larger jet. For those prioritising lower APD costs, a super midsize jet is the most efficient choice, but for maximum space and luxury, a heavy or ultra-long-range jet remains unmatched.

Navigating the Changing APD with Global Charter 

As Air Passenger Duty increases take effect, private jet travellers may see higher costs on departures from the UK, particularly on long-haul routes. While these changes are unlikely to impact the overall demand for private aviation, they are an important factor to consider when planning a flight—whether that means understanding how APD applies to different aircraft, optimising travel choices, or simply being aware of the additional costs involved.  

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At Global Charter, we provide expert guidance on all aspects of private jet travel, from aircraft selection and route planning to handling regulatory changes like APD. Whether you're flying short-haul within Europe or embarking on an ultra-long-range journey, our team ensures a seamless, transparent charter experience - so you can focus on the journey, not the logistics.  

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For bespoke private jet solutions and the latest insights on private aviation, contact us today to plan your next flight.