Almost half of capital’s businesses support higher aviation taxes

Environmental concerns about air travel are changing attitudes in the boardroom, with almost half of businesses in the capital declaring themselves in favour of higher taxes on the cost of flights.

The London Chamber of Commerce and Industry yesterday revealed that 44% of its members believed higher taxes should be levied on aviation fuel and air tickets to mitigate the environmental havoc wreaked by aircraft.

A small majority, 56%, are holding out against any fiscal measures, but the degree of support for higher taxes surprised business leaders and environmentalists. Michael Cassidy, president of the chamber, said: “I think there’s a recognition coming up, particularly through the younger generation, that aviation is a significant contributor to carbon dioxide emissions and that it might be preferable to restrict demand than to allow it to continue unconstrained.” Support for environmental taxes was highest among the financial services sector, where 48% were in favour. Four out of 10 manufacturers and 20% of retailers backed paying more for flights.

Guardian