SUPPORT for an expansion in airport capacity is increasing, according to a survey by travel organisation Abta.

As many as 41 per cent of those polled agreed more capacity was needed - up from 36 per cent in a similar poll last year.

Just 16 per cent felt no expansion was needed, while 35 per cent agreed the UK economy would suffer if there was no capacity increase.

Based on responses from 2,001 consumers and related to holiday booking habits over the last 12 months, the poll also showed 36 per cent were put off flying by the high level of the Air Passenger Duty airport departure tax.

Almost 40 per cent said the tax put the UK economy at a disadvantage.

Abta public affairs head Stephen D'Alfonso said: "Reducing Air Passenger Duty and increasing airport capacity are two key policies that would enhance UK competitiveness, which in turn will deliver jobs and economic growth."