Calm down, calm down...
As I understand it, since February 2007, Air Passenger Duty has been:
Europe economy = 10 pounds - will go up by 1 pound
Europe higher class = 20 pounds - will go up by 2 pounds
Non-Europe economy = 40 pounds
Non-Europe higher class = 80 pounds
Europe = area covered by Single European Sky - not just the EU
The Europe economy charge is going up by 1 pound from 2009, and Europe higher class by 2 pounds from 2009. This is almost exactly the same as inflation. Tax on booze and fags goes up with inflation most years - why should APD be exempt ?
Beyond Europe, just tracking inflation the charge should go up by 4 pounds / 8 pounds respectively.
If travelling 2001-4000 miles, it goes up by 5 pounds (economy) and 10 pounds (business).
If travelling 4001-6000 miles it goes up by 10 pounds (economy) and 20 pounds (business)
Very few people make numerous long-haul trips out of their own post-tax income each year. Having to spend an extra pound on your weekend trip to Italy is not a lot to ask.
Dons flak jacket and runs for cover....