I could look this up, but I figure some Fodorite already has.

Can we deduct the onerous "security" taxes the airlines started charging a couple of years ago?

As far as I'm aware the only taxes that are deductible are real estate and state/local income taxes.

And airlines can't charge you taxes - only fees. It takes a government agency to charge you taxes.

Oh, no, I was getting ready to file an amended form!

According to www.irs.gov, you can only deduct state, local and foreign income taxes real estate taxes, personal property taxes, and state and local general sales tax, but only if you elect not to deduct state and local income taxes.

I'm a CPA but I specialize in corporate tax, not personal taxes. I'm almost 100% certain that the advice from nytraveler is correct.
Why don't you check out the instructions on the irs website?
http://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-pdf/i1040sa.pdf

I told you - 'cause I'm lazy!

Ok ok... so I checked them out for you and nope, airline taxes (they are probably fuel taxes of some sort) are not deductible.

I figured I owed it to you since you posted so much info on PDAs

;-)

Robespierre, you're cracking me up!!!

Yea, this is so funny. Here's a guy who when asked a question says something like, "it's simple. Get a XPDIICC from the GKLWQ catalog and plug it into your AJCTTN with a SPPCC cable. Then you can KICCTFLL for the right information via the TIYYXX site." But he's too lazy to look up a simple question! Too funny, Robespierre -- we'll we all have our strengths and our weanesses. At last we know your weakness.

I am also a CPA and I DO specialize in personal taxes (especially those with small businesses), and the above advice is correct. You cannot deduct those taxes on your return. Sorry!

Now, if it was a business trip, you can deduct the cost of the flight, including taxes, but not taxes on the schedule A. Nice try!