UK Departure Tax to increase

[Beano]

Last year on a Qantas points RTW we chose to fly out of Inverness (via LHR of course) to avoid the APD. We were going to Scotland anyway and it’s a nice town to spend a night.

It all comes down to the convenience and economics. No point in making a trip to avoid APD when that costs more than the APD and takes more time out of your trip.

 

[kangarooflyer88]

It all comes down to the convenience and economics. No point in making a trip to avoid APD when that costs more than the APD and takes more time out of your trip.

Completely agree. For instance, flying UK to Australia ticketed in coach, the APD payable is £94. I could be mistaken here but I suspect the cost of a train, flight plus the hassle of dealing with luggage will make it not worth your time to take such measures to avoid the APD. Now some will point to the higher rate (£224) for travel in Premium Economy or Business class. Supposing the airline actually collects that amount (and that's a big IF) then it might become economically feasible to deploy such avoidance strategies. However, I should point out that depending on circumstances, the airline might simply eat the cost of the added APD. For instance, I believe flying Qantas you can request a points upgrade from economy to business or premium economy. If either request is successful you are seated in the higher cabin but don't have to pay the added APD. At least that was my experience with United performing a points upgrade to business for LHR to SYD a few years ago.

-RooFlyer88