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April 2026: The “Squeeze” and the “Splurge” at Heathrow

by Driver Matty•
V Class Executive Taxi Transfers

As we wake up on this final day of March 2026, the travel landscape at Heathrow is preparing for a significant shift. Tomorrow, 1 April 2026, marks the beginning of the new financial year in the UK, bringing with it a “hidden squeeze” on travel budgets that every passenger should be aware of.

From tax hikes to digital border fees, here is your essential briefing for navigating Heathrow this April.

1. The April 1st Air Passenger Duty (APD) Hike

Starting tomorrow, flying out of Heathrow will become slightly more expensive. The UK government has implemented a planned increase to Air Passenger Duty (APD).

  • The Cost: Economy short-haul passengers will see a £2 increase, while long-haul travellers will face a 13% rise in tax.
  • The “Private Jet” Penalty: For those using private charters, the tax is jumping by nearly 50%.
  • Why it matters: This tax is typically baked into your ticket price, but if you are booking last-minute April getaways today, you might notice a slight “jump” in fares compared to March.

2. The April 8th ETA Price Increase

If you are hosting international friends or business partners from non-visa countries (like the USA, Australia, or Canada), they have exactly one week to save some money.

  • The Deadline: On 8 April 2026, the fee for the Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) rises from £16 to £20.
  • Pro Tip: Encourage your guests to apply before the 8th. The ETA is valid for two years, so they can lock in the lower rate now for any trips planned through to 2028.

3. Events to Watch: The London Marathon (19 April)

One of the biggest events in the UK calendar, the TCS London Marathon, takes place on Sunday 19 April 2026.

  • The Heathrow Impact: While the race is in Central London, the “Marathon Weekend” sees a massive influx of international runners and spectators arriving at Heathrow.
  • Travel Alert: If you are landing on the 17th or 18th of April, expect Arrivals halls to be busier than usual. If you are staying in Central London, be aware of major road closures that may affect your transfer route.

4. New Routes: The St Louis & Guernsey Debut

April isn’t just about fees; it’s about new horizons. On 19 April 2026, British Airways officially launches two major new services from Terminal 5:

  • St Louis, USA: The only direct link between the UK and this Midwest hub, launching perfectly for the 100th anniversary of Route 66.
  • Guernsey: A daily service connecting the Channel Islands directly to Heathrow’s global network.

Navigating April’s Changes with DM Airport Transfers

With APD tax hikes and ETA fee increases, the “cost of travel” is a hot topic this April. Our goal is to ensure that while the government adds fees, we add value.

  1. Fixed-Price Peace of Mind: Unlike the fluctuating APD or the rising ETA costs, our quotes are fixed at the time of booking. We absorb the £7 terminal drop-off fee (which remains a point of contention for many travel associations this year) so your final price is exactly what you expect.
  2. Marathon Weekend Specialists: Heading into London for the Marathon on the 19th? Our drivers are experts at navigating the city’s road closures. We’ll get you as close to your hotel or the start line as possible, avoiding the inevitable “Tube crush.”
  3. The “St Louis” Welcome: If you are one of the pioneers on the new St Louis or Guernsey routes, we’ll be there in Terminal 5 with our Meet & Greet service to ensure your landmark journey ends with a smooth, professional drive home.

Planning an April trip? Lock in your 2026 rates today: