The proposed cut in aviation tax will have a minimal impact on jobs in the travel sector, according to travel recruiters.

The European Low Fares Airline Association (ELFAA) has written to the Chancellor Alistair Darling, appealing for “decisive action” on cutting aviation tax.

Karen Skelton, associate at Management Search Executive, told Recruiter: “If the appeal is upheld I believe the aviation tax will be minimal, having little impact or no benefit to jobs in the industry.”

However, Ian Brooks, director at Gail Kenny Executive Search, adds: “Even only a temporary cut in aviation tax, similar to that on VAT, would be a shot in the arm to a depressed overseas holiday market. Such action would have an immediate impact and would be simple to execute.

“This action would have a positive effect across all of those employed or looking for work in the travel and aviation sectors. The chance of it happening is doubtful as such an action is likely to be viewed as a negative step in terms of the environment.”