The UK government has confirmed that from April 2027, all private jets over 5.7 tonnes will pay APD (Air Passenger Duty) at the higher rate.
This follows a government consultation on extending the scope of the higher rate APD to all private jets over 5.7 tonnes minimum take-off weight (MTOW), regardless of passenger capacity or load.
Currently, the higher rate only applies to jets of 20 tonnes or more that are equipped to seat fewer than 19 passengers – such as the G550 and G650, Challenger 300 or Global 6000.
In addition, all APD rates will increase in line with the Retail Price Index (RPI) from April 2027.
The announcement comes as the existing higher rate of Air Passenger Duty (APD) for private jet passengers is set to increase by 50% from April 2026.
What does the APD increase mean for private jet charter flights?
APD applies to passengers on all flights departing from the UK. The tax is calculated and paid by the aircraft operator, with the cost added to the charter price.
Most private jet charter flights will be affected by the changes from April 2027, announced in the 2025 Autumn Budget. Rates are shown below and are per passenger.
Air passenger duty (APD) rates from April 2026
Higher rate applies to private jets over 20 tonnes, seating fewer than 19 passengers
| Band | Reduced rate | Standard rate | Higher rate |
| Domestic | £8 | £16 | £142 |
| A (0-2000 miles) | £15 | £32 | £142 |
| B (2001-5500 miles) | £102 | £244 | £1097 |
| C (over 5500 miles) | £106 | £253 | £1141 |
Air passenger duty (APD) from April 2027
Higher rate applies to private jets over 5.7 tonnes
| Band | Reduced rate | Standard rate | Higher rate |
| Domestic | £8.26 | £16.52 | £146.63 |
| A (0-2000 miles) | £15.49 | £33.04 | £146.63 |
| B (2001-5500 miles) | £105.33 | £251.95 | £1,132.76 |
| C (over 5500 miles) | £109.46 | £261.25 | £1,178.20 |
Domestic band applies to destinations in England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland only. Bands A-C apply to international destinations – the full band lists can be seen here.
Air there any exceptions to APD?
Humanitarian and authorised emergency medical service flights are exempt from APD.
If you have any questions on air passenger duty and how it affects your private air travel from the UK, please don’t hesitate to contact us: sales@smart-aviation.co.uk / + 44 1293 551244
