Great news that the Government is abolishing air tax for under-12s from May and under-16s in 2016. I have already booked a holiday in Florida in August next year for my grandchildren. Will the travel company give me a refund? — Les Thomson
Yes, which means you should benefit to the tune of £71 for each child. In the Autumn Statement, the Chancellor, George Osborne, announced the progressive scrapping of Air Passenger Duty (APD) for children.
As you say, the tax exemption for under-12s takes effect on May 1 next year (so long as you are flying economy; people in the posh seats will continue to pay £71 per head).
For everyone who has booked a proper package holiday through a tour operator, the process is hassle-free. The final balance will not be due until two or three months before departure, and the difference should be reflected in the final invoice — which will be lower than you had originally anticipated.
If you have booked flights direct with an airline, it could be trickier. People who have booked a trip with under-12s are likely to have to apply for a refund.
Airlines are setting up systems to cope with this, which incidentally will add cost and complexity to their operations. Your airline should get in touch when it is able to start processing refunds.
Looking ahead, by March 1, 2016, anyone in the 12-15 year age range will also be exempt from APD, which will help for future holidays. And the exemption will also apply to all young people in all classes of travel, not just economy.
Email your queries to s@hols.tv
