British Airways has revealed it will cut recruitment by half in 2012 as a direct result of a government decision to persevere with increases in Air Passenger Duty.

The British flag-carrier had been planning to create approximately 800 new jobs in 2012 to support growth of our flying programme, but this will now fall to 400 positions.

“Against an already difficult economic background, these fresh tax hikes make it impossible for us to proceed with this level of recruitment, so we expect to reduce this number by about half,” read a statement from the airline.

The airline also said it would postpone bringing an extra Boeing 747 into service next summer.

The use of two others would also be “reviewed” the carrier said.

“APD is not creating the foundations for growth, it is destroying them,” said Keith Williams, British Airways’ chief executive.

“The Government talks about creating the conditions for jobs and growth – but the reality is the opposite.

“Its tax policy, which is uniquely hostile to aviation, is costing jobs and growth at British Airways.
 
“The rises in APD have left us with no alternative but to cut back on our planned recruitment.

“Many of these opportunities would have been for young people.

“At a time of high unemployment for new graduates and school-leavers, it is deeply regrettable that these additional tax increases have propelled us into this decision,” he concluded.