Blinkered SNP presses on with private jet tax despite investment fears

Blinkered SNP presses on with private jet tax despite investment fears: Scottish National Party (SNP) ministers are moving ahead with plans for a “punitive” private jet tax, despite criticism that it could make Scotland less attractive for investors. Deputy First Minister Jenny Gilruth confirmed that the details of the levy will be announced later this year during the annual budget process. The tax is scheduled for April 2028, a year after Holyrood replaces UK Air Passenger Duty with a devolved Scottish version called Air Departure Tax (ADT). Scottish Conservatives warned that only freezing ADT rates for 12 months will not prevent future increases affecting business travelers and holidaymakers. Craig Hoy said the proposal could raise costs and harm jobs and Scotland’s economy, while noting uncertainty over how it will align with the rest of the UK. Approximately 1,000 private jets fly in and out of Scotland monthly, with around a fifth at Prestwick. Oxfam Scotland previously estimated the measure could raise £30 million annually.