Did You Know You Could be Owed up to £202 for a Missed Flight?

February 14, 2025

By Evans Momodu
2 minute digest
Published 11:19 UK (GMT) Friday 14, Feb, 2025

Hidden in the cost of your plane ticket is a tax called Air Passenger Duty (APD)—up to £202 per ticket (rising to £224 in April). If you miss your flight or cancel a non-refundable ticket, you may be able to claim it back.

How It Works

APD is a tax airlines pass on to passengers for flights departing the UK.
The government only collects APD after you fly, meaning if you don’t board, you shouldn’t have to pay.
Most airlines offer refunds, but some charge admin fees that might cancel out the refund.

Refund Amounts

Short-haul economy (under 2,000 miles): £13
Long-haul economy (2,000+ miles): £87
Premium cabins: Up to £202 (rising to £224 in April)
Exemptions: No APD is charged on flights from Northern Ireland or the Scottish Highlands & Islands.

How to Claim APD Refunds (Admin Fees Apply)

British Airways: Claim via "Manage My Booking" (£15 fee) or by phone after the flight (£30 fee).
EasyJet & Jet2: No fees—claim online or via customer service.
Ryanair: Charges a £20 fee, making claims for short-haul flights pointless (£13 APD).

???? Tip: Always check the airline’s refund policy before booking!
Source: Sky news