Action to boost Scots economy

Sir, - The passing by Holyrood of legislation (June 21) establishing a new tax to replace air passenger duty in Scotland is to be welcomed.

The bill to create air departure tax (ADT) from April 2018, paves the way for the Scottish Government to fulfil its commitment to cut the levy in half by the end of this parliament, ahead of abolishing the charge “when resources allow”.

UK air passenger duty (APD) is the most expensive tax of its kind in Europe and impacts on Scotland, acting as a barrier to our ability to secure new direct international services and to maintain existing ones.

Attracting investment is now more crucial than ever as we embark on Brexit negotiations.

The reduction and ultimate abolition of APD in Scotland will have two key impacts – first, some international routes which are currently marginal and, therefore, not flown are likely to become viable.

Secondly, there is likely to be a price reduction for the consumer on domestic flying and the real possibility of additional frequencies. Research indicates halving APD will create nearly 4,000 jobs and add £200 million a year to the Scottish economy by 2020.

Without action, Scotland could lose out on nearly one million passengers every year, costing the Scottish economy up to £68m in lost tourism revenue every year.

Alex Orr. 77 Leamington Terrace, Edinburgh.