easyJet calls for a more intelligent approach to aviation

There is no doubt that climate change is a real and imminent danger which should be a concern for us all. We all have the responsibility to take intelligent and well thought-out actions to ensure we leave the planet in a good shape for generations to come.

However, much of the recent political debate has been characterised by gesture politics and discriminatory, often contradictory proposals. Politicians of all colours recognise that different cars have different emissions but do not see the same distinction within air travel.

In light of the recent political climate surrounding aviation, easyJet has released the following statement:

“We are an island nation in a globalised economy yet the UK already taxes flying more heavily than any other European country while making high-speed rail available only to those living in the South East. The time has come to scrap APD air tax and move the burden of taxation from passengers to aircraft emissions. Taxing families but not private jets is a grotesque insult.

“It is time for us all to demand a more intelligent approach to flying. Politicians must incentivise consumers to take the greener option when it is available - this means banning the dirty, old aircraft from our skies; getting the right tax regime in place to reward cleaner behaviour; being realistic about the value of aviation and resisting the temptation to advocate alternatives when no such alternatives exist.

“We urge you to write to your MP. It will only take two minutes to tell the politicians you demand a more informed and intelligent approach to aviation.

Step 1) Go to Writetothem.com

Step 2) Type in your post code

Step 3) Chose your MP (and any other politician you feel should get the message)

Step 4) In your own words express your opinion on the following points

- An intelligent approach to aviation
- Encouraging people to fly in cleaner aircraft - just like cars
- Ban the oldest, dirtiest aircraft in the sky
- Taxing families but not private jets and cargo
- Air Passenger Duty reform - taxing aircraft emissions, not people / pollute the most pay the most
- UK air travellers already pay more tax than any other country in Europe
- Encourage aircraft technology developments, air travel could be 50% cleaner within 10 years.
- Urge people to act responsibly - to fly with those airlines that have new aircraft, high passenger loads and fewer emissions.
- Should questions be asked in Parliament about the efficiency of transport modes used for Government business?

“Even if you feel there is little you can do to influence this debate, make sure you read 'the facts about aviation emissions'. The more MPs are aware of the facts, the greater the ability of our country to take the lead in aviation emissions, and it is essential to have an informed political debate on the intelligent solutions to managing aviation emissions.”

For more information log on to easyJet.com and read: Towards greener skies: the surprising truth about flying and the environment.